Watch Ramen Girl

Ramen Girl is a heartwarming and inspiring movie about a young American woman who finds herself stranded in Tokyo, Japan after her boyfriend abandons her. Lost and alone, Abby (played by Brittany Murphy) struggles to find her place in this foreign city until she discovers a new passion: making ramen noodles. Abby becomes fascinated with the art of making ramen and decides to become an apprentice to a gruff and stubborn ramen chef named Maezumi (played by Toshiyuki Nishida). Maezumi initially rejects Abby's pleas for him to take her on as an apprentice, but in true underdog fashion, Abby persists and finally convinces him to teach her the secrets of ramen-making.

The movie is not just about making ramen noodles, but it's also about the cultural differences between Japan and the United States. Abby is determined to assimilate into Japanese culture and fit in with her new friends, but she struggles to understand the nuances of Japanese etiquette and customs. Her struggles lead to some humorous moments, as she tries to navigate her new surroundings and learn the ins and outs of Japanese culture.

Tammy Blanchard also stars in the movie as Abby's best friend and roommate, Gretchen. Gretchen is skeptical of Abby's sudden interest in making ramen noodles, but she eventually comes around and supports Abby in her new endeavor.

One of the most interesting aspects of the movie is the way in which it portrays the art of making ramen noodles. Ramen is a staple food in Japan, and the movie does an excellent job of showcasing the hard work and dedication required to make a truly delicious bowl of ramen. Maezumi is portrayed as a master of his craft, and his passion for ramen is infectious.

The interactions between Abby and Maezumi are at the heart of the movie. They have a complex relationship, as Maezumi is gruff and stubborn while Abby is determined and optimistic. Their banter is entertaining to watch, but it's also clear that they have a deep respect for one another. In a way, Maezumi becomes a father figure to Abby, guiding her through the challenges of making ramen and living in Japan.

As the movie progresses, Abby becomes more confident in her ramen-making abilities. She even starts to develop her own unique style, incorporating some American flavors into her ramen. However, her progress is not without setbacks. Abby faces challenges from other ramen chefs who do not believe that a foreigner can make authentic ramen, and she must also navigate a personal tragedy that threatens to derail her progress.

In the end, Ramen Girl is a movie about finding one's place in the world, and the importance of following one's passions even in the face of adversity. Brittany Murphy gives a standout performance as Abby, bringing both humor and heart to the role. Toshiyuki Nishida is also excellent as the cantankerous Maezumi, and the chemistry between the two is undeniable.

Overall, Ramen Girl is a delightful movie that will appeal to anyone who loves food, travel, or a good underdog story. It's a testament to the power of determination and the joy of discovering one's true calling.

Ramen Girl is a 2008 romance movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.