Strawberry Shortcakes

Strawberry Shortcakes tells the story of two pairs of women: Akiyo, an escort/prostitute, and Satoko, receptionist at Akiyo's escort agency. On the other hand we have Toko, a graphic artist who rents a room to office girl Chihiro.

The film looks at the idea of loneliness in the big city, where meaningful relationships are difficult. Akiyo wants to commit suicide because the man she loves isn't interested in her. Satoko dreams of being loved by anyone but her creepy boss. Toko tries to forget her former boyfriend by immersing herself in her work, and Chihiro hopes to marry a selfish loser.

As the film progresses the two pairs of women make friends: Akiyo and Satoko on the one hand, Toko and Chihiro on the other, and as the friendships develop the need to find love/marriage becomes less important.

Slow, deliberate and revealing, I found this film one of the most moving films I have seen in the last few years.