Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  Jiro Dreams of Sushi finely cuts through meaty themes of perfection and legacy. A documentary that, whilst does not chronicle an important or tragic event, remains gleefully optimistic with its masterful chef. Jiro is the oldest three-star Michelin chef to still be working in Japan. For the past forty years he has lived the way of a Shokunin, a craftsman who dedicates his life to work. He undergoes the same routine everyday. Works both day and night. Trains his sons and young apprentices to follow in his footsteps. Simply put, a perfectionist. His attention to detail, even when it comes to seating customers and recognising which hand they use to consume sushi, has yet to be surpassed. And it is because of his simplistic yet palatable menu, that his sushi restaurant remains the best in the world. Gelb's focus on Jiro's eldest son Yoshikazu, and his eternal struggle to live up to expectations, is something that remains prominent in most cultures. Jiro has built a legacy for his sons to continue, and it is with this expectation that it has forced them into adopting a relentless work ethic. It personifies the artisan culture of Japan, and why the older generation continue to work without hesitation. I found myself mystified by Jiro. The way he produces various types of sushi effortlessly, accompanied with gorgeous cinematography and classic compositions. It was almost hypnotic. Gelb explores the sushi industry with much detail, from the acquisition of produce to cooking the final product. Unfortunately, even at 81 minutes long, I found there was not enough meat to this fishy documentary. Jiro visiting his hometown felt more like steamed rice (filler) than lean tuna (meat), which totalled to roughly ten minutes. The subtitles were also all over the place. Appearing too early or too late, disappearing too rapidly. It was difficult to comprehend the fast conversations that were occurring. Still, it's an unusually delightful documentary that tastes just as good as it looks. Jiro remains an inspiration and a pillar of excellence for many. If only I was rich enough to eat at his restaurant...

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