OL yûkaihan - Hagu!

Synopsis

OL yûkaihan - Hagu! (1985) is a Japanese thriller drama centered around the intense and harrowing ordeal of a working woman (OL) who becomes the target of a kidnapping. Played by Chiemi Akimoto, the film delves deep into the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by the protagonist as she navigates the dangerous situation. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Japan, it offers a gripping narrative that explores themes of vulnerability, resilience, and survival. The movie balances suspenseful sequences with character-driven moments, creating an atmospheric and intense viewing experience that highlights both the perils faced by women in society and their strength under pressure.

Cast

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  Chiemi Akimoto

• Mami Fujimura

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  Hiromi Saotome

• 

  Shirō Shimomoto

• 

  Chitose

• Jhajha Iwaki

Reviews

OL yûkaihan - Hagu! has garnered mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike. On IMDb, the film has a modest rating of 5.7/10, reflecting a niche appreciation for its tension and psychological depth but also criticism for pacing and narrative clarity. Some viewers commend Chiemi Akimoto's compelling performance, as noted in user reviews praising her ability to convey vulnerability and strength convincingly. However, others find the plot occasionally disjointed and the production values dated compared to modern standards. Rotten Tomatoes does not list an official rating due to the film’s limited international release and archival status, but retrospective reviews from Japanese film enthusiasts highlight its significance in the thriller genre of the era. Metacritic also lacks an aggregated score, but some cinema blogs emphasize the movie’s bold approach to social issues despite its modest budget and dated filmmaking techniques. Overall, it is considered a cult classic for fans of vintage Japanese thrillers, appreciated more for its cultural context and thematic relevance than mainstream cinematic polish.