Ride Or Die (2021) Page

What follows isn’t exactly a traditional "romance." It’s a "toxic romance" born out of a shared trauma, as the two women go on the run through urban and rural Japan. Why It’s Worth the Watch

The story kicks off with a heavy premise: Rei (Kiko Mizuhara), a woman who has been in love with her former classmate Nanae (Honami Sato) for years, discovers that Nanae is living in a nightmare of domestic abuse. When Nanae asks for help, Rei takes the ultimate leap—she murders Nanae’s husband to set her free. Ride or Die (2021)

Unlike many LGBTQ+ films that focus on the discovery of identity, Ride or Die treats the central relationship as a high-stakes, "all-in" thriller. It’s a rare piece of representation in Japanese cinema that doesn't shy away from being dark and complicated. The Verdict: Is It For You? What follows isn’t exactly a traditional "romance

Road Trip to Nowhere: The Beautiful, Brutal World of Ride or Die (2021) Unlike many LGBTQ+ films that focus on the

Director Ryuichi Hiroki and cinematographer Tadashi Kuwabara capture Japan with a distinct flair. From the neon-soaked streets of Tokyo to desolate country train stations, every frame feels intentional and intimate.

Kiko Mizuhara and Honami Sato carry the film with authentic, charismatic performances. They manage to ground a story that often veers into extreme emotional territory.

While the film has received mixed reviews for its slow-burn pacing and graphic violence, it stands out for several reasons: