20 Documentary Movies You Must See Before You Die

19. Jiro Dreams Of Sushi (2011)

It might seem strange to suggest that a documentary about sushi makes for essential viewing; rest assured, however, that watching David Gelb's film for just a couple of minutes will have you utterly convinced. The reason for this, aside from the beautiful aesthetics, is all down to the subject, Jiro Ono, who's often thought to be the world's best sushi chef.

Aside from being an endlessly fascinating character, Jiro also happens to be 85-years-old. He's unrivalled in his craft, and operates out of a tiny, 10-seat restaurant that people from all over the world travel to visit (after booking their table for months in advance, of course). Jiro is a perfectionist beyond all measure, even in his older years, and watching him as he creates and cooks sushi as if it were a true art form is mesmerising stuff.

Even if you're unconvinced by sushi or can't stand the sight of it, Jiro Dreams of Sushi still stands as one of the best and most absorbing documentaries in years. It is hard not to admire a man who knows the exact history of every single piece of fish he serves up.