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?
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. Ride or Die (2021)
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
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. If you’re looking for a gritty, atmospheric character
Ride or Die isn’t an easy watch. It’s long (over two hours), brutal in its depiction of violence, and features explicit sexual content. Critics from platforms like UK Film Review have praised its "passionate performances," while others on The DC Review felt the emotional connection sometimes fell short of its lofty goals.
While the film has received mixed reviews for its slow-burn pacing and graphic violence, it stands out for several reasons: