Stalking has become an increasingly alarming issue in Japan, with the nation taking the number one spot worldwide for cases of stalking reported to the police. Over 21,000 cases were reported in 2013 alone, a startling figure which highlights just how harrowing this phenomenon is for Japanese women.
The recently released documentary Hiro follows one such stalker, a man who admits to having stalked his wife when she left him due to his violent behavior and threatened to kill her rather than see her with anyone else. The film provides viewers with an intimate look into the terrifying reality of being stalked and its effects on victims and their families.
The film not only sheds light on the issue of stalking, but also offers insight into why it has become so rampant in Japan – bringing us closer to understanding how this epidemic can be addressed. Hiro is a must-watch for anyone who wants to gain further insight into this silent epidemic and the devastating effects it has on individuals and communities alike.
