In Black Box Diaries, journalist Shiori Ito shares her journey as she explores her own sexual assault and her struggle for justice in Japan’s flawed legal system. Ito’s life is completely changed after meeting with Noriyuki Yamaguchi, a media figure with deep connections. At the time, he worked at the Tokyo Broadcasting System Television and was the personal biographer for Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan. Ito’s assault becomes a landmark case in Japan, exposing a deeply flawed legal system.

Despite reporting the assault, Ito is under the immense pressures of a society that places burden of proof on victims. Just when Yamaguchi is set to be arrested, Ito is informed that the arrest is halted. Not only does Ito have to face the trauma that Yamaguchi has inflicted on her, but she also faces the backlash from a public that deems her a liar; even her family tries to dissuade her from going public. However, Ito is unwavering in her battle against her assailant, and rather than give up, she perseveres. She shares her journey through intimate cell phone videos, CCTV footage and covert audio recordings, ensuring that any evidence won’t be buried.

Throughout the film, we witness the rollercoaster of emotions that Ito experiences; small moments of victory resulting in smiles, overwhelming sadness, and even paranoia from the constant surveillance. While simultaneously investigating her sexual assault, Ito is also writing a book chronicling her experience, which is the same name as the film; this “black box” referring to what police called Ito’s case, a case that would be remain unseen. Ito ensures that her case won’t stay in this box, pushing for change in a society that protects abusers.

Watching Ito’s journey is overwhelming and even exhausting, but her resiliency and perseverance is truly inspiring. I was moved to tears whenever Ito experienced victories, and completely crushed when she’d experience setbacks. Although this is a deeply personal story, it is one that exposes issues that continue to occur throughout the world. However, by sharing her story she proves to be an inspiration for change and a beacon of hope for victims. Ito is a true journalist, seeking the truth no matter what.

We give Black Box Diaries a 4/5.