Koi no Ibara

Koi no Ibara (released internationally as Thorns of Beauty) is a 2023 Japanese film directed by Hideo Jojo. The screenplay was written by Kaori Sawai and Hideo Jojo. The film, which has a runtime of 98 minutes, was released in Japan on January 6, 2023, and distributed by Parco Fiction.

Plot

The story follows 24-year-old Momo, a library worker who is struggling after a breakup with her ex-boyfriend, Kentaro. Momo becomes distressed over the existence of explicit photographs of her that remain in Kentaro's possession. Her situation takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Riko, Kentaro's new girlfriend. Despite their differences—Riko is an aspiring dancer with a personality distinct from Momo's—the two women form an unlikely alliance. They collaborate on a plan to access Kentaro's computer and delete the sensitive images.

Production

Koi no Ibara is a remake of the 2004 Hong Kong film Beyond Our Ken. The production team included producers Ryo Murata and Nozomi Yanai, with cinematography by Masaki Watanabe.

Honoka Matsumoto, who plays the role of Momo

Tina Tamashiro, who plays the role of Riko

Keisuke Watanabe, who plays the role of Kentaro

Cast

Honoka Matsumoto as Momo
Tina Tamashiro as Riko
Keisuke Watanabe as Kentaro
Ayumu Nakajima
Miyu Kitamuki
Oolong ta Yoshida
Mutsuo Yoshioka
Mansaku Fuwa
Masanobu Sakata
Reiko Kataoka
Kazuko Shirakawa