MOVIE | "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" Explores the Art and Life of Jiro Ono, the 87-Year-Old Sushi Master Awarded Three Michelin Stars
MOVIE | A Look at the Techniques and Life of 87-Year-Old Sushi Master Jiro Ono, Honored with Three Michelin Stars
The Documentary "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," a Major Hit Across America
Tucked away in the basement of Ginza, with only ten seats, is the renowned sushi restaurant "Sukiyabashi Jiro," which has proudly held three Michelin stars for five consecutive years. This film, "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," delves into the life of its founder, Jiro Ono, an 87-year-old master craftsman whose techniques and spirit have captivated gourmands worldwide, and who continues to work behind the counter. The film will begin its nationwide theatrical release on Saturday, February 2nd, at Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho and Eurospace.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Young Director David Gelb Followed Jiro for Three Months
"Jiro Dreams of Sushi" premiered in Japan last March, screened in just two theaters in New York. However, word-of-mouth quickly spread its acclaim, turning it into an unprecedented hit. The documentary, rumored to be a strong contender for this year's Academy Awards, has now returned to its homeland, Japan.
The director, David Gelb, was only 26 at the time of filming and is the son of Peter Gelb, the general manager of the Metropolitan Opera. Having been familiar with sushi since childhood and having visited Japan with his family, the young American director was captivated by Jiro Ono's dedication to his craft. At 85, Ono was still actively honing his skills. Inspired by this master craftsman's way of life, Gelb, accompanied by food critic Masuhiro Yamamoto, decided to make a film about his life and philosophy. He conducted intensive interviews for approximately three months, both in Tokyo and in Ono's hometown of Shizuoka.
Gelb's lens captures Jiro's sincere approach to his work, a dedication that many Japanese have perhaps forgotten. Through his two sons, who are both his disciples and successors, the film portrays their respect for and struggles with their great father. It beautifully unfolds the pride and passion of those who support this world-renowned restaurant, presented through warm yet modern visuals and the melodies of classical music.
Two Sons Strive to Surpass Their Legendary Father
Jiro Ono, Tokyo's most celebrated sushi chef, works tirelessly from dawn till dusk. He meticulously tastes every fish and ingredient, guides his apprentices with precision, and crafts each piece of sushi to perfection.
Among them, his eldest son Yoshikazu, 53, is the designated successor at the main branch of "Sukiyabashi Jiro." However, the 87-year-old Jiro still stands behind the counter, actively working. "I haven't even considered retiring yet," Jiro says in the film. Yoshikazu respects his aging master, diligently absorbing knowledge and skills daily, preparing for the eventual generational shift. While Jiro is proud of his son, he also grapples with the fact that his devoted son remains within his shadow indefinitely.
Jiro Ono, who runs a world-famous sushi restaurant and relentlessly pursues the endless path of a craftsman. This film is a masterpiece of human documentary, not only showcasing the artistic process of Jiro crafting sushi but also following his two sons as they strive to surpass their legendary father.
"Jiro Dreams of Sushi"
Nationwide release starting Saturday, February 2nd, at Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho and Eurospace
Directed, Produced, and Filmed by David Gelb
Starring: Jiro Ono, Yoshikazu Ono, Takashi Ono, Masuhiro Yamamoto
2011 / USA / 82 min
© 2011 Sushi Movie, LLC