Drowning Love (film)

Drowning Love, also known as Oboreru Knife (溺れるナイフ), is a 2016 Japanese romantic drama film directed by Yuki Yamato, based on the manga series of the same name by George Asakura.

The film follows the story of Natsume Mochizuki, a teenage fashion model from Tokyo, who is forced to move to a rural town in the countryside. Feeling isolated and disconnected from her glamorous former life, she finds herself drawn to Koichiro Hasegawa, a young man from a prominent family with deep ties to the local community and Shinto traditions. Their relationship becomes passionate and complex, navigating themes of identity, belonging, and the volatile nature of young love.

The film is notable for its vibrant visuals and its exploration of contrasting environments: the glittering world of Tokyo fashion and the rugged, almost mystical landscape of the countryside. It examines the power dynamics between Natsume and Koichiro, and how their individual struggles and desires affect their relationship. The narrative utilizes symbolism and explores themes of trauma and healing against the backdrop of cultural traditions and youthful intensity.

The main cast includes Nana Komatsu as Natsume Mochizuki and Masaki Suda as Koichiro Hasegawa. The film garnered attention for its depiction of intense emotions and its unique visual style.