“Black Box Diaries” will prove to be a tough watch for most viewers and in particular, those affected by sexual violence. In a display of utmost bravery, director Shiori Ito shares her personal experience being bounced around in Japan’s law enforcement maze and judicial system in this infuriating, eye-opening, and distressing documentary about how victims of sexual violence are consistently stigmatized when they have the courage to come forward.
This documentary is shocking, but also unsurprising. Women (and men) the world over will recognize the same common response to Ito’s rape allegation: victim blaming and shaming. The red tape she faces is infuriating, and the power, financial means, and status of her high-profile assaulter means he is able to crush the accusations and get away with crimes.
It goes without saying that this film is highly personal, as we are taken along on a journey of discovery and insight right beside the victim. Ito pieces together the crime that changed her life and in doing so, may encourage even more victims to come forward. To that end, her documentary serves an even greater purpose.
At one point during the film, a sobering statistic flashes across the screen: 96% of cases of sexual violence are never reported. There are various reasons, but the most common are distressing interrogation methods, victim shaming, and outdated guidelines for dealing with sexual assault victims.
“Black Box Diaries” is a wake-up call that it’s always important to report and document these incidents so we can all band together to fight for justice and change.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 