Is Pretenders Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Pretenders is likely a skip if you enjoy Mystery movies.
It features a runtime of 114 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Pretenders Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2018, Pretenders enters the Mystery genre with a narrative focused on In Osaka, Shiromiya will soon turn 40 years old and he is unemployed. Under the direction of Naoto Kumazawa, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Junior Chihara. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Pretenders offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Pretenders resonates with current cultural themes in the Mystery space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Pretenders is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Pretenders centers on a unique premise within the Mystery landscape. In Osaka, Shiromiya will soon turn 40 years old and he is unemployed. He lives with his daughter Yoyoko who is 5-years-old. Yoyoko has a secret. One day, Shiromiya's childhood friend Machi appears in front of them. Machi is a police officer. She looks at Yoyoko with suspicion... The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2018 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Pretenders has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Pretenders sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Pretenders (2018): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Mystery, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Pretenders Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesParents Guide & Age Rating
Pretenders has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Pretenders stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2018 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pretenders movie hit or flop?
Pretenders is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Pretenders worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Pretenders may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Pretenders online?
Pretenders may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Pretenders movie hit or flop?
Pretenders is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Pretenders worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Pretenders may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Pretenders online?
Pretenders may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Pretenders?
Pretenders is a Mystery, Drama movie that follows: In Osaka, Shiromiya will soon turn 40 years old and he is unemployed. He lives with his daughter Yoyoko who is 5-years-old. Yoyoko has a secret. One day, Shiromiya's childhood friend Machi appears in ...
Is Pretenders family friendly?
Pretenders is classified as Mystery, Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Pretenders available in?
Pretenders is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
In Osaka, Shiromiya will soon turn 40 years old and he is unemployed. He lives with his daughter Yoyoko who is 5-years-old. Yoyoko has a secret. One day, Shiromiya's childhood friend Machi appears in front of them. Machi is a police officer. She looks at Yoyoko with suspicion...
Critic Reviews
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