An Encyclopedia of Unconventional Women (2009)

"An Encyclopedia of Unconventional Women" is a captivating anthology of six short films orchestrated by six distinct directors, each focusing on the extraordinary lives of unconventional women, the "Hijoshi," women who dare to live authentically and pursue their desires. In the opening segment, we encounter Tamae, a woman smitten with the local Shinto priest, who guides her life by the fortunes he bestows. Her fortunes lead her to form a bond with a foreign student, Catherine, and ultimately impel her to confess her love. The second segment introduces us to Miichan, a tenacious female fist fighter. Her relentless pursuit for free food samples leads to an unexpected confrontation with Taku, a young man she persistently challenges to a fight, resulting in a comically tense face-off. We delve into the peculiar world of archaeology in the third segment. Here, we meet Miho, a braless archaeologist intrigued by the discovery of a pink bra in the men's changing room. The bra's owner, Keigo, and her subsequent nighttime conversation with him, add an element of mystery and subtle humor to the plot. The fourth segment revolves around the auditions for a gangster film. The revelation that the most impressive auditionee is a woman sparks controversy and debate, challenging the traditions of the film industry. In the fifth segment, we are transported to the tranquil setting of a hot spring inn where Chiaki, the guest, befriends a man and navigates the awkward blunders of a co-ed hot spring newbie. An impromptu sunrise viewing session stirs profound emotions, adding depth to the narrative. Finally, the sixth segment takes us into the mind of Ryoko Nakatani, a young woman in Tokyo contemplating suicide after a romantic rejection. Her vivid imagination of the post-death investigation leads her on an unexpected journey of self-discovery involving curtain shopping, old poetry, and a home-cooked meal. "An Encyclopedia of Unconventional Women" is a mesmerizing exploration of Hijoshi, an ode to the extraordinary lives of women who dare to defy conventions and live true to themselves.

An Encyclopedia of Unconventional Women is a comedy movie featuring Rika Adachi and directed by Yudai Yamaguchi.

It is possible to buy An Encyclopedia of Unconventional Women on Apple iTunes.