Bushi no Kondate

Bushi no Kondate (Japanese: 武士の献立), released internationally as A Tale of Samurai Cooking - A True Love Story, is a 2013 Japanese historical drama film directed by Yuzo Asahara. Set during the Edo period, the film explores the culinary responsibilities of the Funaki family, who serve as cooks for the Kaga Domain.

Plot

The story follows Oharu (Aya Ueto), a woman recognized for her exceptional culinary skills. She enters an arranged marriage with Yasunobu (Kengo Kora), the heir to the Funaki family, which holds the prestigious position of kitchen masters for the Kaga Domain. Despite his family's reputation, Yasunobu lacks cooking ability. With the guidance of her mother-in-law, Mitsu (Kimiko Yo), Oharu works to train her husband in the culinary arts.

Production

The film was directed by Yuzo Asahara, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Michio Kashiwada and Yukiko Yamamuro. Principal photography took place between March and June 2013. The film was distributed by Shochiku and has a runtime of 121 minutes.

Aya Ueto as Oharu — Aya Ueto portrays the protagonist, Oharu.

Cast

Aya Ueto as Haru Funaki
Kengo Kora as Yasunobu Funaki
Toshiyuki Nishida as Dennai Funaki
Kimiko Yo as Mitsu Funaki
Yui Natsukawa as Shinnyoin
Naoto Ogata as Denzo Otsuki
Riko Narumi as Sayo Imai
Tasuku Emoto as Sadanoshin Imai
Takeshi Kaga as Naomi Maeda

Kengo Kora as Yasunobu — Kengo Kora plays the role of Yasunobu Funaki.

Release and Festivals

The film held its world premiere at the 61st San Sebastian International Film Festival on September 21, 2013, as part of the Culinary Zinema program. It was subsequently screened at several international events, including the 33rd Hawaii International Film Festival and the 64th Berlin International Film Festival.

Toshiyuki Nishida in his role as Dennai Funaki.