Watch Maiko Haaaan!!!

Maiko Haaaan!!! is a Japanese comedy movie that was released in 2007. The movie was directed by Nobuo Mizuta and features a star-studded cast which includes Sadao Abe, Shin'ichi Tsutsumi, and Ko Shibasaki. How the movie's title is pronounced is a matter of contention, and the dialogue continues to go back and forth, with the actors in the movie saying “Ma-i-ko” (three syllables), and the audience responding with a more energetic “Ma-iko!” (two syllables).

The movie follows the story of an unsuccessful comedian named Kimihiko Onizuka (Sadao Abe). Kimihiko's dreams of becoming a successful comedian are halted when his girlfriend Shizuka (Ko Shibasaki) dumps him and runs off to pursue her dreams of becoming a geisha in Kyoto. Kimihiko sees this as an opportunity to win her back, and so he follows her to Kyoto intending to become a Maiko (an apprentice geisha) as well. However, it is not going to be easy for him as his unimpressive personality, and unrefined appearance make it incredibly tough for him to make it in a profession that places so much emphasis on grace, elegance, and beauty.

Upon arriving in Kyoto, Kimihiko meets a worthless but helpful former comedian named Ken (Shin'ichi Tsutsumi), who promises to mentor him and help him achieve his goal. Ken runs a failing okonomiyaki stall in front of the geisha house where Shizuka is staying, and is determined to use Kimihiko to promote his business.

As Kimihiko begins his training to become a Maiko, he encounters various challenges such as learning the necessary etiquette, dressing up in the intimidating and painful attire, and maintaining his appearance daily. Besides the physical challenges of being a Maiko, Kimihiko also has to fight off the competition from the other Maiko-in-training at the geisha house.

The film, while lighthearted, does delve into the reality of the struggles of being a Maiko. The movie portrays the hardships of the apprenticeship in both a comic and serious style, highlighting the strict cultural norms that permeate the world of geishas, and what it takes to be a successful geisha for both men and women. The movie is also very attuned to detailing the geisha experience, with shots of everyday life in a geisha house and explanations of the different makeup and dress styles that are required.

Kimihiko ends up playing a massive role in Ken's Okonomiyaki business, which in turn leads to him being the star attraction for their nightly displays, which start to draw in a large crowd every night. Eventually, Kimihiko's determination and drive pay off, and he becomes a talented Maiko, with (as he thinks) thanks to the help of a phantom-like figure from his past who would always encourage him.

With a humorous cast and dialogue, the characters come to life in a bustling and charming theatre. Maiko Haaaan!!! is an enjoyable movie with a heartwarming message that snares the viewer, captivating them with an entertaining and funny storyline.