From Japan comes this extraordinary film, which not only delights through its simplistic and morally-binding story, but also through the warmth and likeability of the central characters.
Sentaro (Masatoshi Nagase) runs a non-profitable bakery, selling dorayakis (pancakes with sweet red bean paste – “an”) when Tokue (Kirin Kiki), a 76-year-old lady with crippled hands, applies for a part time job. Upon tasting her exquisite “an” he employs her and business booms until rumours emerge that she is suffering from leprosy.
The significance of elderly people passing their wisdom onto the younger generation resonates in this visually stunning and beautifully written film, which deals with isolation, disillusionment, honour and the crushing effect of ignorance and gossip.
Endearing and poignant, this film also touches on the inevitability of change in Japan, a country proud of its culture and traditions.
Movie-goers who enjoy cooking should also be mesmerised by the detailed segments which demonstrate the traditional process of making “an”. (MMo)
***1/2
