The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House

The series is really different from anything I've ever watched. Somehow it resembles more the Japanese lifestyle YouTubers that I've followed. It's labelled as "drama" but it borders a new genre almost. The series is so naturally written, acted and directed that it seems like a reality show. It is not rushed at all, which is really nice. There is time for little details of the cooking, of the food, studying ingredients, talking to food, smiles, jokes, etc. The characters are (mostly) super cute, friendly, beautiful and innocent. There is no real conflict but the story moves on, almost in the background somehow. It is really sweet and I find it quite refreshing. It took me a while to realize it's set in modern times, the maikos have mobile phones and stuff, but it looks and feels more like a period series. I personally love it.

This series is refreshingly light-hearted, wholesome and easy to binge watch. The food scenes highlight the intention and artfulness of Japanese cuisine and make me want to try more of it. The intimate shots of Kyoto make it feel like we're there on tour, seeing places we might not get to see if we were mere tourists. Though the dialogue and characters seem so simplistic and giggly throughout the series (something that would normally be a huge turnoff for me), there is something subtle about them and the culture that pulls you in and makes you want to be kinder, less selfish and more grateful for life's simple pleasures. While watching this series, I found myself wanting to elevate my own cooking of my family's meals and to be more appreciative of things I commonly take for granted. It's like the central characters are so exemplary in many respects, that their goodness permeates through the screen and rubs off on you. I also enjoyed learning more about geiko and maiko culture. Unfortunately, I was misled by Memoirs of a Geisha to think that Geisha/Geiko were more like high-end prostitutes but this series made it clear that that was a gross mischaracterization of the role these delicate and respected purveyors of tradition and historical art play in Japanese society. I hope there will be a second season.

You might expect Memoirs of a Geisha, but this is far from it. Set in modern day, the story follows two young friends and aspiring maikos. One of them succeeds, the other becomes the makanai. Conflicts are small and ultimately love and kindness are at the heart of this visually stunning show as the characters, regardless of their differences, are genuinely concerned for one another's well being.

The sets are very interesting and you will feel like you live in the close quarters with these women. I'm not sure if this was an intentional character choice, but both grandma's house and the maiko's house are completely cluttered with things: papers, books, knick knacks, fabric, pots, pans. Everything is everywhere. Organized chaos.

You will almost be able to taste the food, as it is beautifully shot and almost educational the way each recipe is filmed.

Kyoto and all of its scenery is also a visual treat and you will probably start googling what a trip their costs.

All in all, a sweet show. Tender and lovely and not in a hurry.

An outstanding work of art that draws you into a world and its characters like nothing else in TV show form that I can remember. It's easily my favourite Koreeda project since Shoplifters, and I strongly suspect the overall experience made me more feel healed and embraced than any other new show I could have watched instead. I saw a lot of familiarities to Hou Hsiao-hsien in his direction here, which I'm not sure means he is more conciously taking inspiration this time, or if my own recent investment in Hou's filmography has made me notice it more.

It is a show that manages to be devoid of sentimentalism, instead refraining from any unbelievable gimmicks or cheap moments of tension in favour of retaining a sincere heart, and exploring its subjects as earnestly as possible. He continues to emphasise believable stakes which may seem uninterestingly small or insignificant on paper, but mean everything in the world of these people who are just trying to find themselves and do what they can to get by. As much as it's easy to label 'mundane nothing', it is only ostensibly so, with layers of deep and thoughtfully constructed emotionality, giving you space to reflect upon seemingly everything should you choose to engage.

You follow a cast of unique, complex and lovable characters that you grow to learn about in the most organic and impactful way. As you watch the last two episodes, what you've taken in throughout starts to bubble to the surface of your consciousness - much like the gradual preparation of a distinct and familiar meal.

Koreeda manages to crush your heart in his hands before picking it up and helping put it back together again. He places you in a world of such cultural specificity and unfamiliarity, but ends up making you believe you've been there your whole life. It all reminded me why I love him. His last two films ultimately didn't as much, so this one delivering on every level is a much needed gift I'll always be thankful for.

This is a wonderful and rare view into the life and workings of a Maiko House in Kyoto. All the characters are beautifully presented by the ensemble cast and whilst the storyline is simple and limited, there is always enough going on to be completely enthralling.

The cooking/ food is so authentic you can almost taste it, and the two young girls under training are so caring and giving both to each other and all others.

Kyoto scenes are breathtaking at times and simply beautiful at others.

This show has similarities to Midnight Diner in that it focuses on ordinary people going about their lives.

But there is nothing ordinary about the quest to become a fully fledged Maiko at the heart of the story and the portrayal of the training and lifestyle required is extraordinary. So too the appointment and work of the wonderful Makanai, in cooking and caring for all.

I hope those who have not lived in Japan, like I, can fully appreciate the art and insights in this wonderful story. It is worth the effort.