East Side Sushi follows Juana, a single, working-class Latina mother, as she discovers a passion for making sushi.

Years of working in the food industry have made Juana’s hands very fast; she can slice and dice anything with great speed and precision. Forced to give up her fruit-vending cart in order to find a more secure job, Juana becomes a kitchen assistant at a local Japanese restaurant and discovers a whole new world of cuisine and culture, far removed from everything she has known.

As she observes the sushi chefs at work, she secretly teaches herself to make a variety of sushi, and soon finds that her creativity is sparked; she begins to want more from her job and her life. She attempts to become a sushi chef, but faces challenges because she is the “wrong” race and gender. Against all odds, Juana embarks on a journey of self-discovery, determined to not let anyone stop her from achieving her dream.

Members of the cast and crew will be present for a Q&A after the screening. Free with museum admission. RSVPs are recommended.

Read an interview with assistant producer Vicki Wong about the film on Discover Nikkei.