Series & First Appearance
Makoto Edamura (枝村 真人) is a central character in the anime and manga series Great Pretender, created by Wit Studio and directed by Hiro Kaburagi. He made his debut in Episode 1, "The Nothing Man", which premiered in July 2020.
Profile at a Glance
Makoto Edamura is portrayed as a young man in his late twenties, serving as the primary protagonist of the series. He is often referred to as the "Top Swindler of Japan," reflecting his skilled con artist abilities, particularly in deception and manipulation. His affiliations primarily include his roles with various swindling teams and the protagonist group led by Laurent Thierry.
Personality & Motivations
Edamura is characterized by his sharp wit, quick thinking, and an charming personality that allows him to adapt to various situations seamlessly. Despite his cunning nature, he possesses a strong moral compass that occasionally leads him to question the ethics of his schemes. His primary motivation revolves around proving himself as the best con artist, but as the series progresses, he starts to consider genuine connections and the implications of his actions. Notable quirks include his tendency to get caught up in complex plans and his catchphrase, “What could possibly go wrong?” which often foreshadows the chaos that ensues.
Abilities / Powers
Makoto Edamura’s standout skills include his mastery of various con techniques, such as impersonation, sleight of hand, and intricate deception. His ability to read people’s emotions and intentions allows him to effectively manipulate situations to his advantage. Although he lacks physical combat prowess, he often thinks his way out of conflicts with creative plans and clever ploys. Throughout Great Pretender, Edamura evolves from a self-serving con artist into a more altruistic character, albeit still driven by personal ambition.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Edamura’s story arc begins with his life in Japan, where he initially preys on unsuspecting victims until he encounters Laurent Thierry, who introduces him to a more sophisticated world of international cons. Major turning points include:
-
The Los Angeles Arc: Edamura’s skills are tested when he partners with Laurent and other team members, forming a dynamic that challenges his previous notions of trust and loyalty. Each con pushes him to grow, culminating in key betrayals and revelations about his partners.
Books Worth Reading:Sponsored
- The Amsterdam Arc: This arc deepens Edamura’s character, forcing him to confront his past and the ramifications of his actions. His relationship with fellow con artists is further complicated, leading him to question whether he truly enjoys the life of deceit or seeks something more meaningful.
Notable Relationships
Makoto’s most significant relationships include:
-
Laurent Thierry: His mentor and partner in crime, Laurent is both a source of inspiration and a challenge. While Laurent has a carefree demeanor, he often pushes Edamura out of his comfort zone.
-
Abigail Jones: Another member of their team, Abigail serves as a more grounded influence on Edamura, helping him navigate moral dilemmas and highlighting his emotional growth.
Books Worth Reading:Sponsored - Kaito Yamamoto: A rival con artist who forces Edamura to confront his motivations and ultimately serve as a foil to his character.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable moments featuring Edamura occurs in Episode 5, where he orchestrates a con, expecting to outsmart everyone involved. However, the plan backfires in a spectacular fashion, bringing unexpected consequences. This scene encapsulates his trademark optimism and the chaotic nature of his life as a con artist.
A significant quote from Edamura is, “In the end, it’s all a game,” which he utters during a reflective moment in Episode 8. It underscores his internal struggle with the line between game-playing and genuine human connection, resonating with audiences who appreciate the depth of his character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Makoto Edamura is voiced by Kobayashi Chiaki in Japanese and Lee Alan in English, both of whom contribute to his charm and complexity. The character has garnered considerable popularity, as evidenced by his ranking among the top favorites in various polls, with over 576 fans recognizing him.
Production notes reveal that his character design was influenced by Western movie archetypes, drawing inspiration from classic heist films. Edamura’s unique blend of humor, charm, and emotional depth has made him a standout figure in modern anime narratives, appealing to a broad audience beyond traditional demographics.
Through his intricate story and compelling relationships, Makoto Edamura continues to captivate fans, making him a central figure in the world of Great Pretender and an enduring symbol of the clever, unpredictable nature of storytelling in anime.
