

The Center Lane
dir. Hirokazu Kore-eda · 2021
Facing life's challenges can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one's purpose.
"The Center Lane" is a poignant exploration of resilience as it follows competitive swimmer Rikako Ikee's fight against leukemia, masterfully blending documentary and animation to capture her journey back to the center lane. This film serves not just as a testament to the human spirit but also as an uplifting narrative that resonates deeply with anyone who has faced adversity.
Diagnosed with leukemia in February 2019, Japanese competitive swimmer Rikako Ikee returns to her destiny: the center lane, in Hirokazu Kore-eda's short film for skincare brand SK-II.
















