The Man Who Was Eaten

In the 2016 drama The Man Who Was Eaten, we meet Yoshio Murata, an ordinary factory worker whose life takes an extraordinary turn when he learns about an unsettling treaty known as the Earthling Man Eater System. This bizarre agreement, intended to maintain global peace, dictates that Murata will be consumed by aliens in just one week. Rather than succumb to despair, Yoshio embraces his fate with a mix of dark humor and a bewildering sense of curiosity, pondering the question that looms above him: Do I taste good? This existential dilemma becomes a catalyst for a series of absurd yet poignant preparations, as he slathers himself in creams and dons headgear, all in the hope of being the most delectable Earthling for his extraterrestrial diners.

As the week unfolds, the film delves deep into themes of identity, mortality, and the absurdity of existence. Yoshio's journey is enriched by a colorful cast of characters, including Kinoshita, a newfound friend who provides comic relief and companionship, and his ex-wife, whose relentless fixation on money contrasts sharply with Yoshio's impending doom. Additionally, the charming Yuki-chan represents a glimmer of hope and connection amidst the chaos. Through these relationships, the film explores not only the absurdity of Yoshio's situation but also the human capacity to find meaning and camaraderie in the face of inevitable fate. The Man Who Was Eaten is a thought-provoking exploration of life’s fragility, wrapped in a uniquely dark comedic package that invites viewers to reflect on their own appetites for life and connection.