‘Hirugao～Love Affairs in the Afternoon～’ Netflix Series Review - Love and Adultery

Hirugao: Love Affairs in the Afternoon is a 2014 Japanese drama that delves into the complexities of forbidden love and the emotional turmoil it brings. Directed by Hiroshi Nishitani and based on the original screenplay by Yumiko Inoue, the series explores themes of desire, morality, and the fragile nature of relationships. With a compelling narrative and strong performances, Hirugao presents an intense and thought-provoking look at extramarital affairs from a uniquely emotional and psychological perspective.

Sasamoto Sawa (portrayed by Ueto Aya) is an ordinary housewife leading a seemingly peaceful life. She works part-time as a cashier at a supermarket, diligently performing her daily routines. However, her monotonous existence takes a dramatic turn when she impulsively shoplifts a lipstick one afternoon. The act is witnessed by Takigawa Rikako (Kichise Michiko), an attractive and confident woman who is well-versed in the art of deception. Instead of reporting Sawa, Rikako makes an unsettling proposal: she will keep the secret in exchange for Sawa’s assistance in covering up her extramarital affair.

Caught in a moral dilemma, Sawa reluctantly agrees to Rikako’s terms, fearing that exposure would shatter the fragile balance of her life. But as she becomes entangled in Rikako’s web of secrecy, she crosses paths with Kitano Yuichiro (Saitoh Takumi), a gentle and idealistic high school teacher. Despite her initial reservations, Sawa finds herself drawn to Yuichiro’s sincerity and warmth—qualities she lacks in her marriage. As their emotions intensify, she is faced with the heart-wrenching choice of remaining faithful to the life she built or succumbing to a forbidden love that threatens to consume her.

At its core, Hirugao is more than just a tale of adultery; it is an exploration of human vulnerability and the constraints of societal expectations. Sawa’s journey is not just about romance but about self-discovery and the realization of suppressed desires. The contrast between Rikako and Sawa is particularly striking—Rikako embodies a woman who has fully embraced infidelity without guilt, while Sawa struggles with the consequences of stepping outside her moral boundaries. Their dynamic adds layers to the story, as Rikako serves as both an instigator and a mirror reflecting Sawa’s internal battle.

Kitano Yuichiro, on the other hand, represents an idealized form of love that is pure and untainted by obligations. His own internal conflict—being a married man himself—adds depth to the narrative, illustrating that even the most well-intentioned individuals are susceptible to passion and temptation. The show does not seek to glorify affairs but rather presents the emotional toll and irreversible impact they have on everyone involved.

The series benefits from exquisite cinematography, capturing moments of intimacy with a delicate touch while amplifying the emotional weight of each decision. The performances, especially from Ueto Aya and Saitoh Takumi, are heartfelt and raw, making the audience sympathize with their characters despite their morally ambiguous actions. The slow-burning tension, combined with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, elevates the series beyond a typical romance drama.

Hirugao: Love Affairs in the Afternoon is a poignant and emotionally charged drama that lingers long after the final episode. It challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of love, marriage, and the price of fleeting happiness. With its nuanced storytelling, compelling characters, and stunning cinematography, the series stands out as a deeply resonant exploration of human emotions. Whether one sympathizes with or condemns the protagonists’ choices, Hirugao undeniably leaves a lasting impression.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times