Essential Information for a College Girl

Synopsis

Essential Information for a College Girl (1981), originally titled 女子大生の基礎知識　ＡＮＯ・ＡＮＯ, is a Japanese film starring Kumi Aochi that explores the everyday experiences and challenges faced by young women attending college in early 1980s Japan. The story delves into themes of personal growth, social dynamics, and the pursuit of independence as the protagonist navigates love, friendship, and societal expectations within an academic setting. Blending elements of drama and light-hearted moments, the film offers cultural insights into the transitional phase of youth and the evolving role of women during a transformative era.

Cast

• Kumi Aochi

  Junko Morimura

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  Yoko Morimura

  Michiyo Sakurai

• Ayako Ota

  Kumiko Uchibori

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  Nenji Kobayashi

  Ken Kakurai - Handsome Homosexual

• Teruo Kuwazaki

  Kimiyo Yasuda

• Remi Matsuki

  Reiko Nakano

Reviews

While Essential Information for a College Girl is considered a niche film, it holds a distinct place in early 1980s Japanese cinema. Although the film is not widely rated on major Western platforms like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic due to its limited international release, IMDb has user-generated ratings averaging around 5.8/10, indicating mixed reception. Critics appreciate Kumi Aochi’s natural performance, highlighting her portrayal as authentic and relatable, which adds emotional depth to an otherwise modest narrative. Some reviewers praise the film for its cultural portrayal of college life in Japan, noting its subtle commentary on gender roles and societal pressures. However, it is also critiqued for its slow pacing and episodic structure, which some found lacking in dramatic tension or clear storyline progression. The cinematography and period-accurate settings have garnered positive mentions, with reviewers acknowledging the film’s value as a cultural time capsule despite narrative shortcomings. Overall, Essential Information for a College Girl is regarded as a thought-provoking yet understated snapshot of youth culture rather than a groundbreaking cinematic achievement.