He mistrusts Japanese, considers them barbaric island people, etc, etc. Yet he loves Japanese food. When I go to an ethnic restaurant, it's often like stepping onto foreign soil. The decor, the manner, the furniture, the wait staff, the dishes, the desserts. Food was the diplomat who welcomed me in.
Ethnic restaurants are also a great locale for conflict and drama.
Under one roof, you've got people of different nationalities, dialects, different eating customs and tastes. All in the same restaurant, eating food from the same kitchen. There's bound to be some offense and misunderstanding. Food is a wonderful dramatic tool that provides easy access to issues surrounding identity, culture, and affection. I'm also directing three music videos this summer, two for U.S. acts, and one for a Korean pop act.