Apr. 15, 2021|Japan|142 Min.|TV-MA
Genre: Drama;Romance;Thriller
Description: “Ride or Die,” a 2021 Japanese film, draws inspiration from “Thelma and Louise.” It follows a lesbian fugitive and her partner on a thrilling journey, featuring a blood-red BMW and plenty of drama. Directed by Ryuichi Hiroki and written by Nami Kikkawa, this Netflix production stands out in Japan’s conventional entertainment industry by showcasing bold, fully-realized female characters. The story, based on Ching Nakamura’s adult manga “Gunjo” (Ultramarine), stars Kiko Mizuhara and Honami Sato, whose graphic scenes and unabashed performances challenge Japan’s strict image control norms.
Unlike typical adaptations that strictly adhere to source material, Kikkawa took creative liberties, transforming the story into a road movie and giving the previously unnamed protagonists distinct identities. The Japanese title, “Kanojo,” cleverly plays on the dual meanings of “she” and “girlfriend.”
Hiroki, known for his nuanced portrayals of women’s desires in films like “Vibrator” and “Kabukicho Love Hotel,” brings a refreshing authenticity to same-sex relationships, avoiding the clichés often found in Japanese LGBTQ-themed films. This daring and passionate project is a testament to the commitment of its cast and creators, offering a liberating narrative rare in the industry.
Cast director: Ryuichi Hiroki
Cast actor: Kiko Mizuhara, Honami Sato, Yoko Maki, Anne Suzuki, Shunsuke Tanaka, Tetsushi Tanaka, Minami Sara, Yui Uemura, Shinya Niiro, Setsuko Karasuma
Original name: 彼女