While the documentary’s subject matter is well-deserving of an expose, it falls short in its attempt to create an emotional connection. It comes across more like a broad expose, with a touch of self-serving, rather than a deep dive into the emotional complexity that I believe truly makes up Nobu’s culinary journey.
The film boldly asserts that Chef Nobu’s and Robert De Niro’s business pursuits are driven by luxury hospitality rather than simply making money. However, there’s limited footage to support this claim beyond their own testimony. It only briefly touches on the “rags” of the rags-to-riches story, mentioning Nobu’s early struggles with his father’s death and restaurant failures. Then, abruptly, Nobu “perseveres” into his first restaurant, Matsuhisa, thanks to an investment from wealthy relationships?
Structurally, the editing lacked refinement, leading into a few false endings. Three stars is probably generous, but the mouthwatering footage of sushi did leave an impact on me the way its clear Nobu undoubtedly left an impact on the culinary world and expanded our perception of high-end Japanese cuisine. That story is worth telling, but this particular portrayal left me hungry for more.
While the documentary’s subject matter is well-deserving of an expose, it falls short in its attempt to create an emotional connection. It comes across more like a broad expose, with a touch of self-serving, rather than a deep dive into the emotional complexity that I believe truly makes up Nobu’s culinary journey.
The film boldly asserts that Chef Nobu’s and Robert De Niro’s business pursuits are driven by luxury hospitality rather than simply making money. However, there’s limited footage to support this claim beyond their own testimony. It only briefly touches on the “rags” of the rags-to-riches story, mentioning Nobu’s early struggles with his father’s death and restaurant failures. Then, abruptly, Nobu “perseveres” into his first restaurant, Matsuhisa, thanks to an investment from wealthy relationships?
Structurally, the editing lacked refinement, leading into a few false endings. Three stars is probably generous, but the mouthwatering footage of sushi did leave an impact on me the way its clear Nobu undoubtedly left an impact on the culinary world and expanded our perception of high-end Japanese cuisine. That story is worth telling, but this particular portrayal left me hungry for more.
