Is The New Game of Jou-ou: SEX or LOVE Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2016)

📖 The Core Premise

The New Game of Jou-ou: SEX or LOVE returns to the screen in 2016, bringing a fresh narrative to the various genre. 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. "The legendary Roppongi cabaret club “Red Dragon” revives for the third time! Led by the unyielding number-one cast member, Karen, who was headhunted from Kabukicho, the club’s hostesses are once again making men dream tonight. Supporting them is the new cabaret hostess, Mikase, who has long dreamed of one day toppling Karen from her throne as cabaret queen and rising to the top herself. A year ago, Mikase—a college student struggling with job hunting—was scouted into the nightlife by the president, Kurosaki, during an interview. A fortune teller roaming the night streets foretold her destiny, saying, “You can only shine in the night world.” Before she knew it, Mikase found herself at “Red Dragon,” the club Kurosaki introduced her to. For a year she has been striving to become the absolute cabaret queen like Karen. In Mikase’s eyes, men have become nothing more than stacks of cash… that is, until that man appears―."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Unfortunately, Kizuna Sakura feels underutilized in a role that lacks depth. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good cinema. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is The New Game of Jou-ou: SEX or LOVE worth your time? If you appreciate various 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, The New Game of Jou-ou: SEX or LOVE misses the mark on several fronts. With a runtime of 75 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Skip It.