Happy Hour (2015 Film)

Happy Hour (Japanese: ハッピーアワー) is a 2015 Japanese drama film directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi. Known for its significant runtime of 317 minutes, the film examines the lives and interpersonal dynamics of four female friends.

Promotional poster for the film Happy Hour.

Plot

The story follows four women—Akari, Sakurako, Fumi, and Jun—who are all in their late thirties. While they believe they share an open and honest friendship, the group is unsettled when they discover that Jun has been undergoing divorce proceedings for over a year without informing them. This revelation prompts the women to embark on a trip to the Arima hot springs, an event that serves as a catalyst for further exploration of their individual lives and collective bonds.

Actress Sachie Tanaka — Sachie Tanaka, who portrays Akari.

Actress Hazuki Kikuchi — Hazuki Kikuchi, who portrays Sakurako.

Actress Maiko Mihara — Maiko Mihara, who portrays Fumi.

Actress Rira Kawamura — Rira Kawamura, who portrays Jun.

Production and Reception

The film was written by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Tadashi Nohara, and Tomoyuki Takahashi. It held its world premiere on August 14, 2015, at the 68th Locarno International Film Festival. At the festival, the four lead actresses—Sachie Tanaka, Hazuki Kikuchi, Maiko Mihara, and Rira Kawamura—collectively received the Best Actress award. The film's screenplay also received a special mention.