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Synopsis
In the poignant 2016 film Eriko, Pretended, we follow the journey of Eriko, a determined woman who has spent a decade pursuing her dreams of becoming an actress in the bustling city of Tokyo. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she returns to her small hometown to attend her older sister’s funeral. Confronted with the realities of loss and the responsibilities of family, Eriko grapples with her ambitions and the path she thought was set before her. The film artfully blends comedy and drama, showcasing the bittersweet moments of life as Eriko reevaluates her choices and the ties that bind her to her past.
As she steps into her sister's shoes—taking on the role of a mourner-for-hire—Eriko finds herself navigating the complexities of grief, community expectations, and her own identity. The film deftly explores themes of familial duty, the quest for self-discovery, and the irony of pursuing dreams in the face of heartache. With a rich cast of quirky characters who intersect with Eriko's life, Eriko, Pretended offers a unique lens on how we cope with loss while highlighting the humor that often accompanies the most trying times. This heartfelt journey provides both laughs and tears, making it a relatable story for anyone who has ever had to choose between personal aspirations and the weight of responsibility.