Makanai: Dans la cuisine des maiko

A show where nothing happens (if you stick to a narrow-minded view of events on a Hollywood or Bollywood scale) that sucks you in, sinks its hooks into you, and doesn't let go until the end.

Simply beautiful. No fancy plots. No unexpected reveals. No gimmicks. Just an artfully crafted glimpse into the maiko life most people know nothing about. I know I sure didn't.

And they nail the pacing. No extreme highs that like sugar cause you to crash and burn. And no extreme lows that make you dread "uh-oh, what's coming next" whenever a joyous event occurs. The pace stays comfortable, like a warm blanket, and you can relax and marvel at the simplicity yet intricate details throughout this masterpiece.

The acting is so superb to the point you forget they are actresses and actors. And begin to think of them as real-life people living their normal everyday routines.

I've only felt this way with one other show/movie. And that is "From Up on Poppy Hill" by Studio Ghibli. Well worth a binge watch!

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.

What can I say. I loved this. Every moment of it. And I realized this as the serie unfolded: why do we have or make or even accept all the drama in our lives, why? We don't need it, it doesn't make us happy or more true to ourselves. Why all the bitching, fighting, all the selfishness and self absorption and all the room our endless egos need.

Why not live in peace and search for harmony with joy, understanding, patience and respect. Why not laugh more. Eat better. Cook better. Maybe we'll thrive better too.

I loved this serie that actually didn't have much of a story, no dramas, but lots of insight in a lifestyle so different from what I at least are accustomed to. I loved it. Really. Two young giggling teenagers and the rest of the crew made me realize we do need love, understanding, patience and it doesn't have to be the wild kind of love, but the affectionate one works too. Maybe even better. And we need joy in our heats. And we are not dum if we laugh or giggle a lot. We need that spark of joy:)

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.

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.