What makes her documentary more than a just-for-laughs, big-in-Japan satire are the interviews Titley conducts with Hamatsu’s mother, sister and friend, who express outrage, sorrow, pride and a mix of other emotions as the show grew into a prime-time hit. They said they felt sorry for what he endured, including his nudity.
The film also explores Hamatsu’s childhood experience of being bullied because of his long chin and how he turned to laughter to protect himself.
Hamatsu says the hardest part of the show was the solitude, although being without clothing — and very little food — for a year and three months also took a toll on him. The comedian was moved to tears when he received a standing ovation at a New York screening of the documentary.
“I feel I was able to relay a positive message through the documentary,” he said.
The Contestant raises serious questions about how far society might go for entertainment, and the big audiences and money it represents.
The show’s producer said in the documentary he just wanted to “capture the moment” and did not mention any reservations about producing the show.
“I think to an extent we are all complicit in these narratives. I think that’s something to be aware of. It’s very easy to stand back and look at all of this, and sort of think, ‘Oh, look at what those producers did.’ But, you know, as viewers we need to take some responsibility,” Titley said.
The film explores the various emotions of being trapped in different ways, including in relationships, hardships or just feelings of meaninglessness.