Miso Hungry

Miso Hungry is a 2015 documentary film that follows Australian comedian and self-professed junk food addict Craig Anderson as he embarks on a 90-day journey to change his diet by eating only traditional Japanese cuisine. The film documents Anderson's struggles and successes as he navigates unfamiliar foods, culture shock, and the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet.

Anderson's journey begins in Sydney, where he visits a Japanese supermarket to stock up on ingredients for his meals. From there, he travels to Japan, where he meets with local chefs and learns about the art of Japanese cooking. One of Anderson's main challenges is adapting to the small portion sizes and low calorie content of Japanese cuisine, which he finds difficult at first but eventually learns to appreciate.

The film also touches on the health benefits of a Japanese diet, which is known for its emphasis on fresh, whole foods and minimal fat and sugar. Anderson undergoes medical check-ups throughout his journey to track his progress and to measure the impact of his new diet on his health.

Throughout the film, Anderson also explores the cultural aspects of Japanese food, from the tradition of eating seasonally to the importance of presentation and aesthetics in Japanese cooking. He also visits markets and restaurants to sample a wide variety of Japanese dishes, from sushi and sashimi to udon noodles and Japanese-style hamburgers.

One of the highlights of the film is Anderson's visit to a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, where he participates in a traditional vegetarian cooking class and learns about the role of food in Buddhist philosophy. This experience inspires Anderson to incorporate more plant-based foods into his diet, which he finds both challenging and rewarding.

Overall, Miso Hungry is a lighthearted and informative film that offers insight into the benefits of a plant-based, whole foods diet and the cultural significance of Japanese cuisine. Anderson's journey is relatable and inspiring, showing that anyone can make positive changes to their diet and lifestyle with determination and a willingness to learn.