幸せの香り
Flavor of Happiness
This is a good mellow film. I'm constantly surprised how Japan can make these low-melody films and most of them just turns out to be really good. This is an example of that type of movie where it is very easy-going, not much character-study, but you're able to learn a lot about the characters by seeing the things they do. The only complaint that I have is that there aren't any memorable scenes, I was surprised that the film was shot in China for certain parts, but then again it was just really mellow and nothing stood out much. However, the cinematography, and screenwriting are all pretty good. This is a very simple story with good acting, and that's where the film shined, you really get attached to the characters as you really wanted them to succeed. In a way, you never wanted the film to end, the chemistry between the chef and his student was great. There was a mutual respect/love that you can definitely pick out. I really liked this one.