“The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House”: An audiovisual feast that delights the senses

Get ready for a visual and emotional feast! “The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House”, the Japanese series by acclaimed director Hirokazu Koreeda, has arrived on Netflix in a discreet but exquisite way. This production, based on the manga “Maiko-san chi no Makanai-san” by Aiko Koyama, immerses us in the daily life of two friends who aspire to become maiko, geisha apprentices, in the fascinating setting of Kyoto.

With nine episodes of approximately 30 to 40 minutes each, the series transports us to a world full of traditions, beauty and friendship. Although the plot takes place in a culturally Japanese setting, “The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House” presents us with a universal story of dreams, sacrifices, and personal discovery.

Koreeda’s approach in this series is delicate and poetic. Through the eyes of Kiyo, played by the talented Nana Mori, we witness her transformation from aspiring maiko to Makanai, the cook in charge of preparing exquisite dishes for the maiko. The series shows us the daily life of these young apprentices, their encounters with food and how flavors can evoke subtle but powerful emotions.

One of the highlights of “The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House” is its ability to convey a sense of peace and optimism. Although the characters face challenges and worries, gentleness and optimism always prevail, reminding us that even in difficult times, happiness can be found in the little things in life.

Importantly, the series requires some familiarity with Japanese culture, both in terms of character behavior and the pacing of the episodes. The acting, influenced by the Japanese theatrical style, may be different for those accustomed to Western standards. However, this peculiarity contributes to the authenticity of the story and enriches the overall experience.

In technical terms, the cinematography of “The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House” is exquisite. Kyoto’s landscapes are presented with captivating beauty, while the details in the preparation of the dishes transport us to a world of flavors and textures. Furthermore, Yōko Kanno’s musical score perfectly complements each scene, further immersing us in the magical atmosphere of the series.

Despite its low-key release on Netflix, “The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House” is a true treasure that deserves to be discovered. This series offers us a window into a fascinating culture and invites us to savor life through the eyes of Kiyo and the maiko. If you are looking for a captivating experience, full of beauty and subtle emotions, you cannot miss this audiovisual feast.