Umami 2018
In *Umami (2018)*, Manish Khushalani crafts a poignant micro-drama about Chef Daniel, a culinary star whose flawless career begins to unravel when faced with his mother's cherished recipe.
Director: Manish Khushalani
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Umami* (2018) about?
*Umami* follows a celebrated chef whose culinary success crumbles when he tries—and fails—to recreate his mother's signature recipe. The film explores his internal struggle with obsession, memory, and the painful process of letting go of the past. It's a compact yet deeply moving story about how food connects us to the people we've lost.
Who directed *Umami*?
*Umami* was directed by Manish Khushalani, who brings a delicate, observational touch to this intimate character study.
Who stars in *Umami*?
The film features Cynthia Gray as Daniel's supportive partner, Patrick Massey in the lead role of the chef, and Alexa Swinton as a key figure in the story.
Is *Umami* (2018) worth watching?
While *Umami* is a short film with a runtime of just 12 minutes, its emotional depth and thematic richness make it a rewarding watch. It's best suited for fans of character-driven dramas and those who appreciate films that explore personal relationships through a creative lens. Its unrated status leaves room for interpretation, but the storytelling is strong enough to stand out.
How long is *Umami*?
*Umami* runs for 12 minutes.
Umami (2018): A Short Film About Love, Loss, and the Dishes We Can't Recreate — Full Info
In *Umami (2018)*, Manish Khushalani crafts a poignant micro-drama about Chef Daniel, a culinary star whose flawless career begins to unravel when faced with his mother's cherished recipe. This twelve-minute short film dives into the quiet struggles of identity, nostalgia, and the emotional weight of letting go, all wrapped in the rich textures of a kitchen turned battleground. With a minimalist style and intimate performances, Khushalani transforms what could be a simple kitchen mishap into a meditation on love, failure, and the dishes that define us. The film's restrained atmosphere lingers long after the credits roll, inviting viewers to reflect on their own connections to tradition and home.
Starring Cynthia Gray as Daniel's supportive partner and Patrick Massey as the chef himself, *Umami* balances quiet drama with subtle tension. Alexa Swinton adds depth to the ensemble, grounding the story's emotional core. Though brief, the film lingers like the aftertaste of a perfectly balanced dish—unassuming in length but powerful in impact.