The Birth of Saké

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The Birth of Saké

The Birth of Saké is a 2015 documentary film directed by Erik Shirai. The film provides an in-depth look at the traditional process of saké brewing in Japan, focusing on the workers at the Yoshida Brewery in Ishikawa Prefecture. The documentary captures the dedication and craftsmanship required to produce high-quality saké, as well as the personal sacrifices made by the brewers.

Synopsis

The film follows the lives of the brewers at the Yoshida Brewery, one of the oldest saké breweries in Japan. It documents the six-month period during which the brewers live and work at the brewery, away from their families, to produce saké. The documentary highlights the meticulous and labor-intensive process of saké brewing, which includes fermentation, rice polishing, and the careful monitoring of temperature and humidity.

Production

The Birth of Saké was directed by Erik Shirai, who previously worked as a cinematographer on the television series No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain. The film was produced by Masako Tsumura and Erik Shirai. The documentary was shot over the course of a year, capturing the changing seasons and the impact of the environment on the brewing process.

Reception

The film received critical acclaim for its intimate portrayal of the brewers and the traditional saké-making process. It was praised for its cinematography and the way it captured the beauty and complexity of saké brewing. The Birth of Saké won the Special Jury Mention for Best Documentary Director at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2015.

Significance

The Birth of Saké sheds light on the ancient craft of saké brewing, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The film emphasizes the importance of preserving this cultural heritage in the face of modernization and changing consumer preferences. It also highlights the personal stories of the brewers, their passion for their craft, and the challenges they face.

See also

• Saké
• Japanese cuisine
• Fermentation
• Tribeca Film Festival
• Documentary film