A New Beginning in Life, "100 Yen Love" Review

I'd like to talk about the Japanese film "100 Yen Love" (Hyakuen no Koi), which was released on June 16, 2016. This film is a drama and melodrama/romance genre film rated for audiences 18 and older. It has a running time of 113 minutes and was distributed by CineLuxe. It was directed by Take Masahiro, starring Ando Sakura, and co-starring Arai Hirofumi, Koide Saori, and Uno Shohei. The English title is "100 Yen Love".

"100 Yen Love" (Hyakuen no Koi) is a film that depicts the story of a woman who finds a new beginning at a turning point in her life. The protagonist, Ichiko (played by Ando Sakura), is a 32-year-old single woman who works at a 100-yen shop and lives a monotonous life. She is estranged from her family and leads a listless daily routine. One day, Ichiko stumbles upon a boxing gym and meets Yuji, a boxing athlete. Her encounter with Yuji brings about a significant change in Ichiko's life, and she finds a new purpose and passion through boxing.

Director Take Masahiro delicately portrays the loneliness and meaning of life for modern individuals through this film. His direction deeply expresses the characters' emotions, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. In particular, Ichiko's character is a realistic figure with aspects that many people can relate to. Watching her growth and transformation is deeply moving and inspires reflection on the hope of life.

Ando Sakura delivers an exceptional performance in this film, delicately portraying Ichiko's complex inner world. Her acting is genuine and intense, captivating the audience. Moreover, the supporting actors, Arai Hirofumi, Koide Saori, and Uno Shohei, also showcase excellent performances in their respective roles, enhancing the film's overall quality. Notably, the relationship with Yuji, played by Arai Hirofumi, forms the central axis of the film and plays a crucial role in Ichiko's development.

"100 Yen Love" (Hyakuen no Koi) is not merely a simple romance film. It depicts the process of self-discovery and striving towards a new beginning. Ichiko overcomes her limitations and discovers a new self through boxing. This process is highly realistic and deeply moving for the audience. The film confronts the difficulties and pain of life while conveying a message of finding hope and courage within them.

The film's visual elements and music are also noteworthy. The emotional music enhances the atmosphere of the film and delicately expresses Ichiko's changing emotions. Furthermore, the film's shooting techniques and color usage visually portray Ichiko's inner world, leaving a powerful impression on the audience.

"100 Yen Love" (Hyakuen no Koi) didn't receive much attention upon its release, but over time, it has become a beloved film for many. This film prompts reflection on the meaning of life and makes us reconsider the important things we might overlook in our daily lives. Through Ichiko's story, viewers embark on a journey of self-reflection, seeking true happiness and meaning in their own lives.

Finally, "100 Yen Love" (Hyakuen no Koi) is not simply a film that offers hope. It showcases the difficulties of navigating one's path in reality and the small joys discovered along the way. Ichiko's journey of finding a new purpose in life through boxing will instill courage and hope in many.

In this way, "100 Yen Love" (Hyakuen no Koi) is a moving film that explores the true meaning of life. I hope you will also use this film as an opportunity to reflect on the preciousness of life and your own potential. This concludes today's review. I will be back with another film review in the future. Thank you.