I chose to review a documentary film - that explores Japans leading Sushi master Jiro only to find out that his approach to Sushi making speaks to Japans culture of a pristine work ethic, excellence in craftmanship and how vocations transgress generations. I am a foodie at heart so my interest in exploring asian culture through a film lead me to this gem. Jiro is a master sushi chef that has been creating and honinghis craft for over 75 years. His small and austere restaurant, which he runs with his oldest son, has earned world wide critical acclaim and he has earned the highest and most coveted title of a - three Michelin star chef. The film shows the daily preparations for service at the restaurant Jiro Suyabashi, from going to the fish market in Tokyo and bidding on the highest quality tuna - to the tireless kitchen preparationswith his son and other kitchen staff. Jiro is the best, and to be the best he has outlined what it takes. Here is a list I complied from watching and taking notes to the secret of Jiros excellence- which are fundamental pilars to Japanese work ethic and cultural expectations.
*Fall in love with your work-you must dedicate yourself to your work
*Never complain about your job
*You must like your job
*You must try and try, fail many times before you can master anything.
*The key is to be regarded honorably.
This last key point is something I have learned is the highest attainable expecation of excellence in Asian culture- Honor. I had read about the utter regard for honor in many aspects of Asian culture- warriors going to battle, women being accepted in society, and any job done with excellent craftsmanship to name a few.
The documentary not only peaked my interest becasue fo the exeptional food craftsmanship, but it also touched upon the strong ties to family that the Japanese have in their culture. Jiro's eldest son has been working with his father for over 37 years and still has "much to learn from his father before becoming a master"... more that 37 years! This is an example of how high the expectation for excellence is in Japanese culture.
I would highly recommend this film to my classmates. It will intrigue you on many sensory levels- as well and give you an in depth glimpse to Japanese culture and Cultural ties to Japanese excellence.