East Side Sushi

Juana is a Latina single mother living in East Oakland who dreams of becoming a sushi chef despite the fact that it's a job traditionally held almost exclusively by Japanese men. Against all odds, she is determined to achieve her dream. EAST SIDE SUSHI introduces us to Juana, a working-class Latina single mother. Years of working in the food industry have made Juana's hands fast – very fast. She can slice and dice anything you throw at her with great speed and precision. After working at a fruit-vending cart for years, she lands a position as a kitchen assistant at a local Japanese restaurant. Intrigued by the food, she learns to make a multitude of sushi on her own. Eventually she attempts to become a sushi chef, but is unable to because she is the 'wrong' race and gender. Against all odds, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, determined to not let anyone stop her from achieving her dream. (HBO Europe)