Hee

In the thought-provoking drama Hee, released in 2015, the narrative unfolds years after Japanese psychiatrist Dr. Sanada first crossed paths with his troubled patient, Azusa. Once a young woman grappling with the haunting memories of her parents' tragic death in a fire—an incident she feels inexplicably tied to—Azusa's life has taken a dark turn. Now a sex worker in Los Angeles, she finds herself embroiled in a murder accusation that dredges up the past and forces her to confront her unresolved trauma. Dr. Sanada, who once dismissed her as merely troubled rather than insane, is faced with an entirely different Azusa, igniting a complex interplay of memory, guilt, and the nuances of mental health.

As the investigation unfolds, themes of responsibility and the fragility of the human psyche take center stage. The film delves deep into the psychological struggles that define Azusa's existence, exploring the thin line between sanity and madness. Dr. Sanada's own emotional turmoil complicates his professional detachment, particularly when confronted with Azusa's vivid recollections of her tormentors, which seem to resonate with his own buried fears. Hee invites the audience to ponder the lasting impact of trauma and the intricacies of human connection, making it a compelling watch for those interested in character-driven narratives that challenge perceptions of mental health and morality.