Watch HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental

HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental is a Japanese comedy reality show from Amazon Studios that premiered in 2016. The show is hosted and directed by the popular Japanese comedian Hitoshi Matsumoto, who is known for his distinctive style of humor that combines absurdity and deadpan delivery.

The premise of the show is simple yet hilarious. Ten comedians are locked in a room for six hours, and the last one to laugh wins a cash prize of 10 million yen (approximately 91,000 US dollars). The show's tagline is "No laughing, no talking, no escaping" - and the contestants take this seriously, knowing that even a slight smile could be their undoing. The show is shot in black and white, accentuating the seriousness of the situation.

Each episode features a different set of comedians from various backgrounds, including stand-up comedians, television personalities, and performers of traditional Japanese comedy known as rakugo. As the hours pass, the comedians inevitably start cracking up due to various stunts, antics, and pranks pulled by their fellow contestants. The last one standing, without giving in to laughter, wins the grand prize.

The dynamic between the contestants is a major factor in the show's success, as the comedians try to outdo each other with their wit and comedic timing. Some contestants resort to physical humor, while others rely on wordplay, impressions, or observational comedy. The interactions between the contestants are often unpredictable and hilarious, making viewers wonder who will crack first.

The show has a unique twist that keeps viewers engaged throughout the entire season. Once a comedian laughs and is eliminated from the competition, they become an audience member and are allowed to watch the remaining contestants continue to battle it out. As more comedians are eliminated, the pressure becomes greater for those still in the game, as they have to resist the urge to laugh in front of a roomful of comedians who are doing their best to make them break.

The contestants are not just vying for the cash prize; they are also staking their reputation as comedians on the line. In Japan, comedy is taken seriously, and a loss on Documental could be a blow to a comedian's career. Because of this, the tension among the contestants is palpable, and the stakes are always high.

HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental has been praised for its originality and humor, as well as its insight into the world of Japanese comedy. The show is not just about making people laugh but also about what it means to be a comedian in Japan. The contestants' struggles to resist the urge to laugh reveal the artistry and skill that goes into comedic performances.

The show's success has led to the creation of several spin-offs, including Documental Junior, which features child comedians, and Documental Ladies, which features female comedians. The show has also been adapted for international audiences, with local versions in Mexico and India.

In conclusion, HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental is a one-of-a-kind show that combines comedy with a high-stakes game show format. The show's unique premise and the dynamic between the contestants make for an entertaining viewing experience. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in comedy, Japanese culture, or just looking for a good laugh.

HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental is a series that ran for 5 seasons (36 episodes) between April 20, 2018 and on Amazon Studios