FAKE

The film examines the complex narrative surrounding Mamoru Samuragochi, born to atomic bomb survivors in Hiroshima. It reveals how his celebrated status as a deaf composer was upended when Takashi Niigaki, his ghostwriter for 18 years, exposed the truth about Samuragochi's ability to hear and his lack of musical notation skills. As his career crumbled, the film captures the aftermath of this scandal and its implications for media portrayals of ability and disability.

Tatsuya Mori's documentary takes a deep dive into Samuragochi's life, showcasing his small Yokohama apartment and his interactions with his wife and cat. It presents a unique character study that critiques the media's role in constructing narratives around artists and their abilities. The runtime of 109 minutes allows for a thorough exploration of the themes of authenticity and deception in the world of classical music.