Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Jiro Dreams Of Sushi

Who would ever have thought that a spectacular film could be produced about preparing sushi? This outstanding documentary is about a most remarkable man, Jiro. He is in his mid 80’s and still attends to his small restaurant every day supervising the preparation of the sushi spectacular dinners that have honored him with a 3 star Michelin award.
His youngest son has opened his own restaurant with his father’s blessing. The two other sons work under the father’s scrutiny. Much speculation is given to the fact that one day the eldest son will take over. Will he achieve the accolades of his father? Will business continue or begin to drop? The eldest son is now 60 and still is under apprenticeship with his father.
Before this film I thought sushi was raw fish served with a dipping sauce. I had no idea what went into the purchasing of the finest fish and the preparation. Octopus is massaged for 50 minutes before preparation. We witness the cutting of the various fish. The skill involved is incredible. I was spellbound.
The restaurant is a small 10 seater filled to capacity every night. There is a 2 month waiting time to get a reservation. As well as the two sons the staff includes about 6 other young sous chefs.
It was fascinating to watch the ‘back stage’ preparations.
The best fish has to be purchased from the market. We are privileged to witness the fish auction at the market. The fish are lined up on boards in a very large area. The purchasers walk along the rows inspecting and testing the fish before the auction begins. Tuna is tested by feeling a small portion of the meat from the tail. Jiro can tell if it is the highest quality by the feel of that tail flesh.
Jiro is an amazing man. He has the toughest requirements of his staff but he seems firm and cool at the same time. When he smiles he becomes the most gentle of people. He loves his job and has no intention of quitting.
A food critic is interviewed and praises the quality of the sushi. He claims that Jiro is the most self critical person he has ever seen. The food critic stated that when he eats the sushi he feels as if he is listening to music.
Jiro claims that the only thing he has changed in 40 years is that he has now stopped smoking.
Even the rice dealer was interviewed. I thought rice was one of the easiest foods to prepare. Not according to Jiro and the rice dealer. Even the rice is the best at this restaurant.
The film did not make me change my opinion of eating sushi but I certainly gained a respect for the amazing requirements in making the best sushi. I also had the deepest respect and love for Jiro. He inspired me. The man is amazing. The film is also amazing. I just wish the two people sitting on either side of me would not have crunched their popcorn and rustled their bags. It was irritating and distracting. There is something to be said for going to early films when the theatre is half empty. There was hardly a seat available in the house.
Thanks to the TIFF Bell Lightbox for once again providing a most outstanding film. The building was a bustle of activity. Long lines were waiting to see the latest art show. The restaurants were filled when I left. This establishment has added so much to the cultural life in Toronto.