Drama Digest
This show is based on the manga Koduko No Gurume, where a famished salesman travels and explores Japanese eateries. He introduces and checks out various traditional food joints and eats solo; some of them are revisited eventually. These eateries were later visited by the manga writer.
The Feel-Good Part
Superior quality sound production makes it apt for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) videos, which could make anyone hungry. The videography style especially highlights the food in a warm comforting way, which makes us crave some food off the plate. All the details of the restaurants are mentioned. As it is filmed in a food travelogue, food documentary style, the viewers would feel as if they are traveling to a destination. With English subs, a large audience can enjoy Japanese food culture.
The Disappointing Factor
Videography is quite good to a large extent but is downgraded with impoverished video production. The story of any eatery develops slowly; hence one might feel averted.
In-depth Analysis
The show is shot in a narrative documentary style which almost resembles a pseudo-documentary. Striking narration demands our attention to minuscule details. Resemblance to the original manga is shown with a manga-like introduction. The story takes time to develop and reach a point where the lead is hungry, hence could feel tardy at the beginning of an episode. At many places, the lead happens to do self-talk to engage better with the taste and feel of the food. It is very tempting to see the lead describe each flavor and reminiscent similar tastes from the past. Typical customers overview of a place is perfectly depicted by telling the nearest prominent location, hygiene factor and noting little details and decor of the place. With the help of food, the author travels through an array of emotions that intensify when backed up by a story. To stand out from the usual food documentary, this show has hints of dramatics to it, which makes it look stagy and theatrical. The close-up shots of piping hot food would give you hunger pangs. This show was one of the various programs badly hit by the pandemic.
Star Power
The only cast member is Matsushige Yutaka, a well-known Japanese actor who is renowned for his parts in Dear Doctor, How to Train Your Dragon (Japanese Dub), EM Embalming, Outrage Beyond, and many more. His lean and accommodating persona gives a realistic touch to the show. Opening narration from Noda Keiichi gives a rustic tone to the narration. The story is given by Qusumi Masayuki and art by Taniguchi Jiro.
Overall Opinion
A reviving watch for food and travel enthusiast. It also gives a sneak-peek into Japanese lifestyle, values, and their day-to-day nuances. A good watch for anyone who gravitates towards Japanese culture.
