Unlike the scrappy fighters we’ve seen in other sports films, Ichiko Saito of 100 Yen Love is an unmotivated recluse that does only the bare minimum to survive. Hardly an underdog to root for. Still, when Ichiko spots a boxing gym, the film transforms into something special. In spite of the disappointments that follow, the gym moves her into action, into picking a goal and moving after it, rather than the usual makeover we’ve seen done for other female protagonists. Ichiko actively tries to take control of her life. The hope grows as we follow her journey, especially with Sakura Ando physically transforming Ichiko’s slouch into an upright, confident stance. 100 Yen Love reveals what’s at the heart of a loser like Ichiko, someone who just needs one win after all of life’s disappointments.
"In its unique mix of seriousness and comedy, the film presents a series of disappointments in a young woman's life that cumulatively convince her to take control of her own destiny."
— Peter Debruge
Slacker Ichiko gets into a fight with her younger sister and begins to live on her own, working the late shift at a 100 yen shop. On her way home, she passes a gym and meets boxer Kano who trains there in silence...
