Is Counterfeit Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Counterfeit is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 94 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Counterfeit Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2009, Counterfeit emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Comedy, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Kageko, a teacher in a small mountain village with a thriving Japanese paper industry, is visited by a former student, who proposes a plan to manufacture counterfeit money. Unlike standard genre fare, Counterfeit attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Counterfeit features a noteworthy lineup led by Mitsuko Baisho . Supported by the likes of Munetaka Aoki and Yuichi Kimura , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Counterfeit (2009) is negative. With an audience rating of NR, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Counterfeit Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Counterfeit is a Drama, Comedy, Crime film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Counterfeit Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Counterfeit attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Counterfeit reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Counterfeit Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Counterfeit incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, comedy, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Counterfeit adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Counterfeit?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Counterfeit
- Mitsuko Baisho – Kageko Sada
- Munetaka Aoki – Tetsuya Nakagawa
- Yuichi Kimura – Noridonbe Hanamura
- Toshiyuki Itakura – Shingo Ohtsu
- Ryo Nishikata – Misako Shimamoto
Top Highlights
Mitsuko BaishoKageko Sada
Munetaka AokiTetsuya Nakagawa
Yuichi KimuraNoridonbe Hanamura
Toshiyuki ItakuraShingo Ohtsu
Ryo NishikataMisako Shimamoto
Masaki MiuraKenjo Ogasawara
Takashi UkajiMasazane Kurata
Jun MurakamiKiyota Hashimoto
Yasunori DantaFumio Toura (as Yasunori Danda)
Shigeru IzumiyaToyoji Ikemoto
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Counterfeit has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Drama, Comedy, Crime), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Counterfeit stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2009 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Counterfeit movie hit or flop?
Counterfeit is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Counterfeit worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Counterfeit may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Counterfeit online?
Counterfeit 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.
How Counterfeit Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Counterfeit
No reviews found for this filter.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
