'The Contestant' tells the bizarre story of a Japanese man who lived a real-life 'Truman Show'

"The Contestant" is a documentary about Tomoaki Hamatsu, known as Nasubi, a Japanese comedian who unknowingly lived his life on camera in a small apartment, surviving solely on sweepstakes prizes. Directed by Clair Titley, the film explores the psychological impact of this extreme reality TV scenario, which was broadcast live without Nasubi's full awareness, drawing parallels to "The Truman Show." Nasubi's ordeal became a national sensation in Japan, shaping his life and career long after the show ended.