Is Maruyama, the Middle Schooler Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2013)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Maruyama, the Middle Schooler (2013), audiences are invited back into the world of Comedy, Fantasy, Drama, Family. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Katsuya Maruyama is a middle school student boy full of obscene thoughts. He then meets Tatsuo Shimoi, a single father who moves into the same apartment complex. Tatsuo Shimoi is a bit of an enigma: he doesn't get along with the housewives in the apartment complex and doesn't appear to work. Through his encounter with the mysterious single father, Katsuya grows as a person."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Maruyama, the Middle Schooler, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi delivers a serviceable performance that keeps the narrative moving. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Comedy. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Maruyama, the Middle Schooler worth your time? If you appreciate Comedy, Fantasy, Drama, Family films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Maruyama, the Middle Schooler is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 120 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.