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?
While the film has received mixed reviews for its slow-burn pacing and graphic violence, it stands out for several reasons:
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. Ride or Die (2021)
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.
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 Unlike many LGBTQ+ films that focus on the
If you’re looking for a gritty, atmospheric character study that asks how far you’d go for the person you love, this is a road trip worth taking. Just don’t expect a "happily ever after" in the traditional sense.
If you're looking for more, I can help you (make it more academic or more casual) or add a section comparing it to the original manga. Just let me know! Ride or Die (2021) - IMDb While the film has received mixed reviews for
Most road trip movies are about finding yourself. Netflix’s Ride or Die (2021) is more about losing yourself in someone else. Based on the manga series Gunjō by Ching Nakamura, this Japanese psychological thriller is a raw, messy, and visually stunning exploration of love pushed to its absolute breaking point. A Love Built on a Blood Oath