Art imitates life (again)...
In anticipation of my upcoming jaunt to Japan, I've taken a few moments to try and learn as much about Japanese culture as possible. In reality, I will embarrass myself and commit multiple faux paus (is that plural), all while trying to not come off as the Ugly American.
So last night I thought it would be good to try and watch Lost in Translation to pick up some pointers on what life may be like in Japan.
I only got through the first five minutes -- the thought of Giovanni Ribisi actually going to bed with a starlet like Scarlet Johansson was enough to make me turn the channel -- but two scenes stick out:
1) When Bill Murray first meets his welcoming party at his hotel, they all hand him their business card. Apparently, this is de rigeur in Japan.
2) The scene where Murray rides the elevator down in the morning -- he towers over all the (Japanese) men. According to my mom, "you'll be the tallest man in Tokyo". Can't wait. If they play basketball on 8 foot hoops over there, I'll be Yao Ming.
Comments
Learning about overseas culture from a movie? So American!
Posted by: Heather | September 5, 2006 02:43 PM
Heather -- I think you've got it wrong!
I've heard so many foreigners who say they learn English (not just culture, but the language) from American movies and music.
And besides, I learned everything I need to know about Seattle from "The Real World: Seattle"...
Posted by: MrShafrir | September 5, 2006 04:18 PM
Well, I can understand learning a language from a movie (kind of like an entertaining version of a language course). Then I fully expect all overseas tourists to tell me I'm "so money!" and/or ask "do I amuse you? Am I a clown?". But the point of culture is the experience, not watching what Woody Allen or Sophia Coppola think of it. Seriously, are all New Yorkers like Woody Allen? : ) Oh boy, I hope not! I hope NY doesn't spit me back onto the west coast.
As for the Real World....ugh! Oh wait, I have to go and throw my alternative fish in the rain with a latte in my hand.
Posted by: Heather | September 6, 2006 04:33 PM