Hyouka: Forbidden Secrets

Synopsis

Hyouka: Forbidden Secrets is a 2017 Japanese mystery drama film starring Kento Yamazaki, based on the popular novel series by Honobu Yonezawa. The story centers on Oreki Houtarou, a high school student who prefers to live a life with minimal effort and energy output. However, his curiosity is piqued when he joins the Classic Literature Club and becomes involved in unraveling a decades-old mystery surrounding a vanished student and a cryptic message. As Oreki and his friends delve deeper into the secrets hidden within their school, they encounter a series of puzzles and conflicts that challenge their intellect and friendship. The film blends suspense with coming-of-age themes, highlighting how the pursuit of truth can ignite transformation even in the most reluctant individuals.

Cast

• 

  Kento Yamazaki

  Hōtarō Oreki

• 

  Alice Hirose

  Eru Chitanda

• 

  Fujiko Kojima

  Mayaka Ibara

• 

  Amane Okayama

  Satoshi Fukube

• 

  Kanata Hongo

  Jun Sekiya

• 

  Yuki Saito

  Yoko Itoigawa

Reviews

Hyouka: Forbidden Secrets received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.7/10, reflecting a moderate reception. Many praised the movie for its intriguing premise and the performance of lead actor Kento Yamazaki, who convincingly portrays Oreki's reserved yet inquisitive nature. The mystery element was appreciated for maintaining a suspenseful atmosphere; however, some critics felt the pacing was uneven, with the plot developing slowly and some scenes lacking emotional impact. Rotten Tomatoes did not have a critic score available, indicating limited coverage by mainstream Western media. Fans of the original novel and anime series acknowledged the film's faithfulness to source material in terms of storyline and character design but noted that it struggled to capture the depth and charm presented in the animated format. Overall, while Hyouka: Forbidden Secrets appeals to mystery enthusiasts and fans of Japanese high school dramas, it may not satisfy viewers expecting a more dynamic or fast-paced thriller.