Asia Society Japan at the Movies: Come Back Anytime

“Probably the best movie I've ever seen on the topic of the food culture of Japan.” 

— Adam Platt  Chief restaurant critic, New York Magazine

Masamoto Ueda, better known as ‘Master’ or ‘Taisho’ to those who know him best, serves up more than just a bowl of ramen; he makes food for the soul. In Come Back Anytime, this self-taught ramen master welcomes us through the doors of his small noodle bar, Bizen-tei, to understand the simple magic that keeps his customers coming back.

Cinematographer, director and editor John Daschbach maintains a gentle rhythm throughout the film. Each chapter, paced by the transition of the seasons, is carried by honest and nostalgic interviews. From Bizen-tei’s most devoted regulars, we learn all about the delectable flavors of Master’s ramen, the milestones celebrated at the bar, and the memories made there.

And yet it is when we leave Bizen-tei and follow Ueda-san on outdoor excursions with his regulars that we truly begin to understand the unique and idiosyncratic power of the community he has cultivated through the decades. As Daschbach put it: “a ramen master who hangs out with his customers on the weekend? Now that’s intriguing.”

Most of all, Come Back Anytime is a simple, heartwarming and delightful portrait of the unwavering importance of human connection—not least when shared over a bowl of steaming ramen.

Join us on Tuesday, March 14 when we’ll be hosting a screening of Come Back Anytime accompanied by a fireside chat with John Daschbach and producer Wataru Yamamoto. The event will be followed by networking reception with cocktails and snacks.

Event and Registration Details 

• This event will be conducted in person, and registration is required.
• Participation is open to the public. Please pay your fee by credit card or at the door.

Speaker Bio

John Daschbach
Director-Cinematographer-Editor
John is a Tokyo-based American filmmaker who fell in love with film at the Dartmouth College Film Society while growing up in Hanover, NH. After studying literature in college, he dove into film editing while studying with legendary editor, Ralph Rosenblum at Columbia University. After embracing the digital revolution of the late 90s, he’s been making independent films, and editng others’, ever since. COME BACK ANYTIME is his second feature, first documentary, and first cinematography credit.

Filmography

• Come Back Any Time – 2021 – 81 min.
• Brief Reunion 2011 – 88 min.
• Waking Dreams – 2004 – 24 min.
• Blindside – 2002 – 10 min.
• Bedtime Stories – 2000 – 15 min