User reviews

I love the post. Generd make a convincing chef. Last time I remember It's in Last vacation.

It really makes me want to visit Japan, especiallly Hokkaido in winter. Who doesn't want to enjoy a hot ramen after a freezing cold day skiing. Althrough it's early summer where I am, I find a Japanese restaraunt to have some ramen half my way watching this movie.

The starting in France giving background information about main character's life is a bit long and boring to my like. I hope it can focus more in his journey in Hokkaido. Not only the people, but also the food. It can be a very intersting story but turns out to be abit cliche.

To love something is one thing, but what is the true depth of love? Setting aside the initial part describing the protagonist's current predicament, what I appreciate is the latter half. In order to understand and experience the essence of the word 'fresh,' there are various attempts made, as well as an exploration of how others perceive the concept of 'fresh.' In that moment when he finds the 'fifth taste' that goes beyond sour, sweet, bitter, and spicy, it makes us believe it can bring unique sensations to audiences from all walks of life. It prompts us to ponder, beyond our everyday existence, what is it that makes our experiences truly unique.

No pun intended - and also I don't think Gerard changed anything for his physical appearance ... although he does seem bigger (not in a good healthy sense) ... maybe there is some prosthetics involved? Would be a good think for him for sure ... otherwise one almost could worry for him.

Maybe he eats to good. Which would fit in with the story and his character obviously. No matter his size, he remains a great actor of course. That said, the drama has quite a few cliches and other things going for it or rather against it. Pacing is ok, but for some it may be a bit too slow. I like the Japanese touch - not sure how that plays with you. But it does seem to give it some gravitas at times. Some quality of sorts ... again all in the eye of the beholder. Or a taste question ... which brings us back to my summary line ...

I had never heard of this film, and then had the chance to watch it during a plane flight. Yes, at first it feels confusing and disjointed, as we're following several characters in different geographical locations, and it's hard to see how this will all come together. But then Depardieu's troubled and frankly unappealing character makes it to Japan and the slow weaving together of his life and that of the Japanese chef's family begins. My favorite bits had to do with his introduction to Japanese flavors, how he comes alive as he tastes ramen broth and spun sugar and meets the pig keeper who serenades her animals by playing rock guitar. The ending was sweet and satisfying.