Coping Mechanism

In the distant future, on the outskirts left behind by the rapid concentration of advanced science and technology in urban areas, lies a remote mountain village known as Kagami Village. "Behave yourself, or a Double will come for you." Such old folklore still lingers in this village. Akane Higure, a middle school student living in Kagami Village, has been eagerly awaiting the return of her older sister, Sui Higure, who is finally being discharged from the hospital after a year. However, not long after her sister comes home, Akane receives a single phone call. "The girl at home with you… isn’t your sister."

Directed by Japanese filmmaker Ryo Orikasa, this animated short was inspired by Henri Michaux’s book of poetry and drawings of the same name, about his experiences with mescaline. The film explores the limits of language and perception, creating connections between sound, meaning, shapes and movement.

TV shows, manga, music, movies, plays, pop stars and cartoon characters. I watch videos on my phone with the TV blaring and music in the background. I’m swimming in media... Is this the other side of the screen?! Awesome!

She wonders when she started thinking that she was only a convenient tool for someone else. The protagonist finds herself rattled because of some minor occurrences in her daily life.