On the surface, The Makanai is a simple, slice-of-life show about food and friendship. While it is that, to be sure, it’s also a substantial drama that tackles questions about art vs. love, and love vs. companionship, and career vs. purpose. Under the gentle guidance of showrunner Hirokazu Kore-eda (Still Walking, Shoplifters, Broker), who generously allows up-and-coming directors to take the helm on certain episodes, The Makanai feels at once light and hefty, comforting and challenging. We’re seeing mundane events unfold before us as if we were bystanders, but we also understand that there is so much more happening than what meets the eye. A prolonged gaze, a lovingly prepped meal, an especially sharp wing-eye, all of these have much to say about the state of mind of these girls.
It’s a supremely gentle and culturally rich show with a tender heart; a truly great watch on all accounts.
"Whether you come to the show for a story about enduring young friendships, delectable dumplings, the rigors of an artistic pursuit, or the episode-long treatises on the nature of unrequited love, The Makanai lets you take your pick."
— Steve Greene
Two inseparable friends move to Kyoto to chase their dreams of becoming maiko, but decide to pursue different passions while living under the same roof.
Absolutely lovely to watch. The only downside was it made me hungry.