Tampopo (1986)

About Tampopo

An intriguing blend of genres, 'Tampopo' is a Japanese comedy film directed by Itami Juzo. Branded as a 'Ramen Western', it tells a unique story of a truck driver named Goro who helps a widow named Tampopo to revamp her roadside noodle shop, juxtaposed with a sensual exploration of food and various humorous side sketches related to gastronomy.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Itami Juzo and produced by Juzo and Yasushi Tamaoki. It was filmed in Tokyo, Japan. Despite the movie being about food, the director didn't want it only to be seen that way, but also as a parody of the Western genre and Japanese culture.

Actors

• Tsutomu Yamazaki as Goro, the truck driver and ramen expert. He brought a depth and strong presence to his character.
• Nobuko Miyamoto as Tampopo, the widow struggling with her ramen business. Miyamoto excelled in portraying Tampopo's eagerness to learn and determination.
• Ken Watanabe as Gun, the sidekick of Goro. Ken's performance provided some of the comic relief of the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The director, Itami Juzo was married to the leading actress, Nobuko Miyamoto.
• The movie holds an extraordinary 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
• 'Tampopo' is the first film that was branded as a 'Ramen Western', a play on the term 'Spaghetti Western'.

Awards

'Tampopo' was highly regarded by critics and won Best Artistic Contribution at the 1986 Cannes Film Festival.

Quotes

• "The making of a bowl of ramen is a universe in itself."
• "First, observe the whole bowl."
• "Appreciate its gestalt. Savor the aromas."

Music, Soundtrack

• 'Tampopo' features a symphonic score by composer Kunio Miyauchi that unexpectedly brings a Western movie flavor.
• The music used in cooking montage scenes whimsically blends traditional and Western sounds.