Many people would categorize this as a "foodie" movie. Yes the main character is a sushi chef, and the food scenes are beautifully shot, but I felt that the film dealt with a topic much deeper than food, but of the purpose of life itself. One obviously has to respect Jiro and what he has accomplished in his life, but it seemed there were some thing missing for a life lived at that high of a level. His wife never appears in the movie, apart from a b/w picture. You rarely see Jiro smile. And the most telling part is that many of his customers felt intimidated dining in the presence of such a great master.
I see this film highlighting a basic structural cornerstone in Japanese society, the concept of respect. From what I can see and have experienced, respect is the highest honor that can be paid in Japanese society, and Jiro has achieved it. Respect from his customers, his peers, his family. I saw the love of perfection Jiro had for the art of creating sushi. I'm not sure if there was love shown for his family and sons who were carrying on the tradition.
I see this film highlighting a basic structural cornerstone in Japanese society, the concept of respect. From what I can see and have experienced, respect is the highest honor that can be paid in Japanese society, and Jiro has achieved it. Respect from his customers, his peers, his family. I saw the love of perfection Jiro had for the art of creating sushi. I'm not sure if there was love shown for his family and sons who were carrying on the tradition.