A Taxing Woman with English, Portuguese and Russian subtitles
is a 1987 Japanese movie, directed by Jūzō Itami, follows Ryoko Itakura, a relentless and sharp tax investigator determined to bring down Hideki Gondō, a cunning and wealthy businessman adept at evading taxes. The film captures their thrilling and often humorous cat-and-mouse chase as Ryoko, with her unwavering determination and clever tactics, unravels Gondō’s intricate web of fraud. This engaging blend of thriller and dark comedy provides a fascinating glimpse into the complexities and moral ambiguities of tax enforcement.
Ryoko Itakura’s character was inspired by a real female tax investigator, showcasing Itami’s appreciation for strong, professional women.
The film’s detailed look at tax evasion and investigation made it both educational and entertaining, bringing attention to the field of tax enforcement.
Itami’s mix of satire and drama in this film set a new benchmark for Japanese cinema in the 1980s, influencing many filmmakers.
The movie was so successful that it spawned a sequel, “A Taxing Woman’s Return,” in 1988, continuing Ryoko Itakura’s relentless pursuit of tax evaders.
