Jiro Dreams of Sushi
Nadine Kam
Style Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser
Where and with whom did you see the movie?
At Consolidated Kahala with my husband Christopher Neil.
Overall what did you think?
It is a great documentary about Jiro Ono, a sushi master who is a National Treasure of Japan, and whose restaurant has received three Michelin stars. The film shows the dedication and passion he has for his craft that led to these honors, though he never set out to pursue awards or acclaim, only perfection.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes?
I loved Jiro’s philosophy of orchestrating a meal, and loved hearing how he arranges the 20 courses of his omakase in three movements, starting with classic sushi offerings, seasonal specialties, then finishing with bold, strong flavors.
I also liked the theatrics of the Tsukiji Fish Market auctions.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film?
★★★★
What did you think of the cinematography?
It was adequate for a documentary.
Was the message/theme clear?
Yes, that it takes a combination of skill, great passion and a lifetime of hard work to serve the best sushi in the world.
A true craftsman is never satisfied with his achievement and continually works at learning and improving on his performance. There was an environmental message as well.
Jiro notes that because of overfishing, some of the seafood he enjoyed in years past are no longer available, and the quality of fish today is not the same as the past.
Did it remind you of any other work in film?
Even though it’s a documentary, there’s a certain degree of sensuality in the presentation of the glistening sushi that can be associated with more cinematic depictions of gastronomic pleasures in Babette’s Feast, Chocolat and Eat Drink Man Woman.
Did you identify with any of the characters?
Jiro and his sons are like any of the chefs I know who care passionately about every aspect of their menu and about putting the highest quality of ingredients on the plate.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD?
I rarely need to own a movie.
I only have two, The Gift with Perry Farrell and Breakfast on Pluto with Cillian Murphy.
What’s your favorite movie snack?
Junior Mints.
On a different note, what’s new with you?
I’m heading to Shanghai to cover the city’s Fashion Week, and I’ll probably enjoy some good food while I’m there!
