Green Tea Rice Movie Feast: Savoring the Taste of The Flavor of Green Tea over Rice
In the heart of Tokyo, 1950s, a story of marital woes unfolds against the backdrop of a humble dish - ochazuke. This traditional Japanese meal, a simple yet profound symbol of cultural heritage, takes centre stage in Yasujiro Ozu's poignant film, "The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice" (1952).
The movie, recommended for viewers aged 18 and above, features a wealthy middle-aged couple, Taeko and Mokichi. Taeko, a sophisticated, city-bred housewife, and Mokichi, a humble and provincial businessman, are growing apart. Their relationship is further tested by the arrival of Taeko's vivacious niece, Setsuko.
Ozu, renowned for his observational storytelling, crafts an emotionally powerful yet austere film. The dialogue is in Japanese, with English subtitles, providing a unique immersion into post-war Japan.
The significance of ochazuke in the film lies in its symbolic representation of Japanese tradition, domestic harmony, and cultural continuity. This modest dish, where green tea is poured over rice, evokes themes of family, changing social dynamics, and the understated yet profound connection to cultural roots via food.
Ochazuke embodies simplicity, comfort, and the preservation of cultural heritage. In the film, it reflects the characters’ relationships and emotional states by highlighting the contrast between modernity and traditional values. The act of sharing ochazuke underscores a gentle reminder of familial bonds, gratitude, and the everyday rituals that sustain culture.
In a broader cultural context, ochazuke is much more than just a dish; it carries historical and social significance. It represents a modest, accessible meal that connects ordinary Japanese people with their heritage and history through food practices that have meaningful function beyond nutrition. It often appears in moments of reflection or calm, signaling contentment, reconciliation, or a return to basics.
Participants attending the event will be served salmon ochazuke and popcorn during the screening. The event also features a discussion with lecturer and filmmaker Brandon Wilson, MFA. So, come and immerse yourself in the flavour of Japanese tradition and the poignant storytelling of Yasujiro Ozu's classic film.
Please note that this event is not suitable for vegetarians and vegans due to the serving of salmon ochazuke.
- The traditional Japanese dish, ochazuke, plays a significant role in Yasujiro Ozu's film "The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice" (1952), symbolizing Japanese tradition, domestic harmony, and cultural continuity.
- In the movie, ochazuke, a simple meal where green tea is poured over rice, highlights contrasts between modernity and traditional values, reflecting the characters' relationships and emotional states.
- Ochazuke is more than just a dish; it carries historical and social significance, representing a connection between ordinary Japanese people and their heritage and history through food practices.
- The movie, set in post-war Japan, is recommended for viewers aged 18 and above and features unique immersion into the culture, with the dialogue in Japanese and English subtitles.
- Participants attending the event will be served salmon ochazuke and popcorn during the screening, offering a taste of Japanese tradition alongside the film viewing experience.
- The event also includes a discussion with lecturer and filmmaker Brandon Wilson, MFA, offering insights into the movie, its significance, and Japanese culture as a whole.
