Chefs Share Their Beliefs, Philosophy, and Vision for the Future of Japanese Cuisine

On December 4, 2013, Washoku was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The widespread global recognition of Washoku, a cuisine foreign to many cultures, is undeniably due to the passion of individuals who dedicated their lives to its propagation.

The documentary film 'Washoku Dream' features over 60 individuals from Japan and the United States who have contributed to the spread of Washoku, including Mr. Kinari Kanai, Chairman of Kyodo Boeki, who supported its dissemination through ingredients. The film transcends borders to capture their beliefs, philosophies, and visions for the future of Washoku.

From Japan, participants include Mr. Kagehisa Imada, the third generation of 'Ginza Kyubey,' and Mr. Hiroharu Satake, the young master of 'Minokichi Honten Chikkei-ro.' From America, there's Mr. Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, who operates the global Japanese restaurant chain 'NOBU,' and Chef David Bouley, owner of Brushstroke. From France, Chef Joël Robuchon, owner of the Michelin three-star Robuchon group, also appears.

The film is directed by Junichi Suzuki, a Japanese-American filmmaker who received the Best Film Award at the New York Asian Film Festival for his Japanese-American historical trilogy: 'The World of P.T. Barnum,' '442: The Fighting Japanese Americans,' and 'In Two Worlds.' This film, produced over 11 years since his move to the US, is fueled by his appreciation for Washoku and the connections he forged during his stay.

The music is by Akihiko Matsumoto, who won the Excellence Prize for Film Score at the 22nd Japan Academy Film Prize for 'Bayside Shakedown.' The executive producer is Ryuichi Suzuki, a former chief editor at Shinchosha, who has collaborated with Director Suzuki for many years.

Additionally, Mr. Kagehisa Imada, the third generation of 'Ginza Kyubey,' is scheduled to appear at a stage greeting event at Theatre Shinjuku following the 11:40 AM screening on Saturday, April 11th.

Director Junichi Suzuki, who has focused on the beliefs, philosophy, and future of Washoku, rejoices in its UNESCO intangible cultural heritage status but also expresses concern over the declining consumption of traditional Japanese cuisine within Japan. Perhaps this film will inspire us to contemplate the future of Washoku.

'Washoku Dream'
Nationwide release starting Saturday, April 11th, at Theatre Shinjuku and other cinemas.
Director | Junichi Suzuki
Starring | Kinari Kanai, Yoshihiro Murata, Hiroharu Satake, Kagehisa Imada, Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, and others
Distribution | Film Voice
2014 / Japan / 107 minutes
http://www.washokudream.jp


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