Is Diary of a Mad Old Man Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Diary of a Mad Old Man is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Diary of a Mad Old Man Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1962, Diary of a Mad Old Man enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Utsugi, a seventy-seven-year-old man of refined tastes who is recovering from a stroke, discovers that, while his body is decaying, his libido still rages on -- unwittingly sparked by the gentle, kindly attentions of his daughter-in-law Satsuko, a chic, flashy dancer with a shady past. Under the direction of Keigo Kimura, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from So Yamamura, Ayako Wakao, Keizō Kawasaki. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Diary of a Mad Old Man offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Diary of a Mad Old Man resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Diary of a Mad Old Man is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Diary of a Mad Old Man centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Utsugi, a seventy-seven-year-old man of refined tastes who is recovering from a stroke, discovers that, while his body is decaying, his libido still rages on -- unwittingly sparked by the gentle, kindly attentions of his daughter-in-law Satsuko, a chic, flashy dancer with a shady past. Pitiful and ridiculous as he is, Utsugi is without a trace of self-pity, and his diary shines with self-effacing good humor. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1962 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Diary of a Mad Old Man has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Diary of a Mad Old Man sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Diary of a Mad Old Man (1962): with an audience rating of 6.5/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Diary of a Mad Old Man has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.5/10, and global collection metrics, Diary of a Mad Old Man stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1962 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Diary of a Mad Old Man movie hit or flop?
Diary of a Mad Old Man has received mixed reviews with a 6.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Diary of a Mad Old Man worth watching?
Diary of a Mad Old Man is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Diary of a Mad Old Man?
Diary of a Mad Old Man is a Drama, Comedy movie that Utsugi, a seventy-seven-year-old man of refined tastes who is recovering from a stroke, discovers that, while his body is decaying, his libido still r...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Diary of a Mad Old Man movie hit or flop?
Diary of a Mad Old Man has received mixed reviews with a 6.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Diary of a Mad Old Man worth watching?
Diary of a Mad Old Man is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Diary of a Mad Old Man?
Diary of a Mad Old Man is a Drama, Comedy movie that Utsugi, a seventy-seven-year-old man of refined tastes who is recovering from a stroke, discovers that, while his body is decaying, his libido still r...
Is Diary of a Mad Old Man family friendly?
Yes, Diary of a Mad Old Man is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Drama, Comedy genre.
Where can I watch Diary of a Mad Old Man?
You can find streaming options and availability for Diary of a Mad Old Man on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of Diary of a Mad Old Man?
Diary of a Mad Old Man features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie Diary of a Mad Old Man?
The runtime and duration of Diary of a Mad Old Man are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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