THE COOK | Award-Winning Short Film 

A lot of people ask me how we made the movie. Well, it all started with a simple idea and I decided to share with you some behind-the scenes footage in this making-of video : ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-gJW3uCl5_zY.html I hope the beautiful pictures and the wisdom from David Lynch inspire you to create something amazing 🖤

I loved reading the comments because they took this to mean The Cook has gotten addicted to drugs, and lost hope for his career. But, the way I saw it, The Cook is imagining a possibility for himself, especially when the music plays at the end and he looks at his hands in awe. It’s like a new inspiration has struck. I don’t think he was a cook before, I think the idea that he could be a cook just began.

He either smoked his passion away, or got the courage to address it. Bravo!

For those asking (***disclaimer - if you haven’t watched, watch first, it’s under 3 minutes and it’s well worth it). There are no words as the film does not need words. But I will put my words below to assist only those who have watched and are saying they are still unsure of what it means: It is a linear sequence that takes place only in the mind of an addict until we see him in his actual life. He imagines classical music, an elaborate gourmet kitchen, the use of his hands, which he regards with awe and respect, as he plans his culinary masterpieces and begins to create a masterpiece in his imagined magnificent kitchen. When finished he takes his creation on a serving plate to himself as a patron who is waiting for the great dish designed and delivered to himself by himself - the great chef. Without judgment he serves himself a rolled joint on a serving plate and as himself as the chef, he lights it for himself as the patron to smoke. He is the sole special guest in the restaurant. The joint on the serving plate is surrounded by a bit of floral and herbal garnishment and one lone grape. The joint represents the destitute meagerness of what he offers himself in his present life. The garnishment represents that something more is possible. He had started the sequence in his imagination with only the little he would know about creating a food masterpiece. He washes a few grapes and chops some herbs. His focus is on his hands and what he can do to use his hands in ways that are far beyond the life he actually lives. His face becomes dark and his expression changes when he returns to his present empty world, he has only a toilet and a sink and the joint he lit. Everything becomes quiet after he blew smoke from his mouth in the restaurant, closing his eyes before he returns to his real life. The smoke, like magical dust, awakens him back to the life he is living. With his eyes open to his bleak life, he stares straight ahead as if he is looking into the future. Soon the beautiful music begins again. His expression changes to one of excitement and anticipation of something beyond his sparse existence. He stretches his hands out, moving his fingers as he did when he imagined himself as a chef. A small grin begins to form on his face. With awakening passion he has imagined his future life.

didn't saw that one coming...what a strong message to inspire those who lost their touch of talents and the world at large. Well done Vincent.

I see a man that realized he could probably become a profesional joint roller or something

The cinematography in the short film is top-notch, with every shot delivering a hidden message. The sound design is perfect, with music that fits the film and sound effects that are spot-on. Although there is no dialogue, the narrative and storytelling are brilliantly conveyed. The video uses metaphors to illustrate the story of a "Chef" who ruins his potential by becoming addicted to drugs. In conclusion, the short film serves as a reminder to stay focused on our dreams and passions and to avoid things that can ruin our lives. Our future is determined by what we do today, and it reflects on our success tomorrow. Mark Jim G. Lobitaña (For educational purpose only)

Your short film reminded me of this quote: "I was gifted, am gifted. Sometimes I looked at my hands and realized that I could have been a great pianist or something. But what have my hands done? Scratched my balls, written checks, tied shoes, pushed toilet levers, etc. I have wasted my hands. And my mind". Charles Bukowski I really enjoyed it. Good luck🤍💐

Wow ! Thank you all so much for the likes, comments and discussions ! I'm so happy and humbled that such a short film can reach so many people. Filmmaking is a beautiful thing and I'm glad I get to share my work and passion here. Special thanks to the cast and crew of the film and best of luck to all of you out there working on new projects :)

Outstanding shortfilm, sound design and cinematography are a gaze to watch. I love the fact that there is no dialogue. Although the message and the ending are opened to interpretation, i see a man realizing his own power, to be a master in cooking e taking the wheel of his destiny. Well done.

This movie was 3min long and I've been thinking about it all day... amazing! The best short movie I've ever seen!

An insanely powerful short film with so much room for interpretation! There are so many different views and opinions and that alone shows that your short film makes people think. I'm a fan of drama and therefore always like to interpret it dramatically 😝For me, the preparation and the first moment of consumption for the consumer is like a gourmet meal. Everything has to be perfectly prepared for the big moment of enjoyment. However, a short time later reality sets in and it doesn't look so elegant. Despite everything, the consumer realizes that he can use this energy and passion for something else as well. It's in his hands! For me personally, it's one of the best short films I've seen on RU-vid so far. Great respect and many thanks for sharing! 🙏🏼

the last two shots are so powerful my interpretation is that the scene where someone lights his cigarette and candles are all around him is how he is treated for his talent and art and the scene at the end is how he feels with no one around, there's one candle behind him representing loneliness and his desperate face, the first shot also has many candles which also could mean when the spotlight is on him, either way such a powerful message and to tell it visually is strong! great job

Thank you for providing your movie to the Indie Film Music Contest! Amazing storytelling and it was so much fun to score to!

This gives "let him cook" a whole new meaning 😭😭😭

really amazing work, I loved the cinematography and pacing of the film. The score felt extremely fitting and you had my interest until the end. Way to go.

let him cook

Im reading the comments and thinking we watching different videos 🤣 dude literally rolled a blunt and yall talking about cooking

Dude, the sound design and cinematography were outstanding, well done!

Analyzing a short-film is like being captured into a world of cinematography where certain events happen at a span of time. The cook is an award-winning film which revolves around the chef who lost his passion in life and got negativities in life. In this analysis, there will be a discussion and an in-depth analysis of the short-film, as well as essential elements defining the parts of the story. Cinematography: The camera angles are mostly focused on the subject. It uses a portrait element of videography which encapsulates the face of the actor. On framing, rule of thirds is well-applied and symmetry of spaces are shown on the film. Lighting has a dark background and light foreground which allows for a dramatic effect and a more emphasis on the character. Its visual style uses a dark tone filter which lets the viewer know it is an emotional film. Sound: Dialogue is muted like a pantomime but its message is clear which is to follow your dreams and avoid vices. Music is in a form of orchestral style which allows for a suspense theme and sound effects are mixed with the music which results it cannot be heard. Narrative Structure: Plot development is good since it has a sequence, from being successful up until no goals in life. Its pacing is fast since the video is just about 3 mins long, however, the reasons were not emphasized why the protagonist lost hope in life. And storytelling techniques are 100% because based on the setting and costumes of the character, it is observed that it is done in the kitchen, therefore he was a chef. But later on, he lost hope in life, attended vices and went down the wrong path. Symbolism: Recurring symbols or metaphors like the food tray symbolizes that a chef is meticulous and careful in cooking food and its preparation. It shows the detailed process in making a food, just like in life, achieving something is a step-by-step process. The food tray is shining which symbolizes the caring chef who does not let anything go beyond perfection, everything is clean and well-planned. Despite the plan and everything that came up, there are things that you cannot handle like losing hope in life, being not happy with the things you used to do, losing your passion, and negativities in life. This is symbolized by the cigarette. Another meaning of the cigarette is when we stick to our vices, we somehow lose our will to live. Once we become addicted to it, our world will revolve around it which lets us go down the wrong path. In conclusion, the short-film has a message for us to follow our dreams and passions in life for us to be happy. The ending shows that despite our negativities in life, we can still start again because the end of life is not near once we do something we love. There is no age requirement in doing your passion again, there is no right or wrong place to achieve it, the best way to do it is now. So do what you want and be happy, and you can do it once you put your heart and mind into it. JASPER MENDEZ (For educational purposes only.)

The film takes you on a journey through the chef's emotions, creativity, and the magic that can be found in even the simplest of ingredients.

442 comments, Mary Jane is truly with you brother. Well done! Inspirational, short and lots of space for own interpretation, bravo!

Its about how someone prepares to roll their joint, they turn into the greatest roller as if they are royalty serving themselves and enjoying with pleasure

Your film🎥is absolutely incredible!✨ I love it so very much. I've read a couple of reviews and while people pigeon hole this as merely a setup for a punchline or emphasis its comedic tenor. I believe the central organizing principle is "We as individuals are capable of so much! Why settle for less? Why settle for mediocrity?" Many thanks to you and your entire crew for producing this masterpiece.

the artistic placement of the garnish around the jay is what resonated with me the most

I've been there, literally right there. Heavy.

the art direction!! 🤌🤌🤌 the light… absolute cinema!

Every addiction was once an event, a moment of pleasure. You used to prepair for it, to organize ir, to cook it carefully, to see the details… When a “moment of pleasure” becomes frequent, we stop seeing the beauty or feeling that pleasure.

bravo bravo !!!! loved it , every little detail , camara work , lighting , editing , script , idea , actor , all of it and very visually artistic also , make more , make more please ,

Regardless that he seemingly smokes, he never forgets his dream. His thoughts cooked in his psychy long enough, right up to this present moment. He knows exactly where he is going. He knows it's time for action. The film is crystal clear. He is the cook. He chose both.

It really does feel like that sometimes though. When you get the joint on point and everything just aligns... You feel like a chef!

Bravo Vince!

is this a film about recognizing your life's potential? or just getting the munchies... the world may never know...

Wow! That's one of the most beautifully shot short-film I've seen

Cuando la idea es buena y se tiene talento, todo queda dicho en 3 minutos. Excelente.

This is a masterpiece in short film terms! I will take notes from this for my next works, as i´m starting in the bussiness and want to achieve this level

My interpretation is in the end in his drug induced vision he saw what he could have been and felt motivated. Before he didn't think it was possible for him to be something but this time he feels like it's possible. Thank you so much sweet lord and the creators.

It's almost identical to Jesse painting the wooden box in Breaking Bad. A person imagines himself doing something happy and then realizes that he is not that happy after all.

It's really inspiring to see work of small creators! Congrats on your success :D love, a fellow swiss film-enthusiast

Wow loved everything the plot the angles basically everything bravo!

"The Cook," an award-winning short film, captivates audiences through its masterful cinematography, sound design, and editing. The cinematography skillfully frames each scene, creating a visual feast that mirrors the culinary artistry within the narrative. The use of lighting and composition accentuates the emotional beats, immersing viewers in the protagonist's culinary journey. The sound design complements the visual storytelling, with a meticulous attention to detail in capturing the sizzling sounds of ingredients, the rhythmic chopping of knives, and the symphony of flavors coming together. This auditory richness not only enhances the sensory experience but also serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's internal struggles and triumphs. The editing seamlessly weaves together the narrative, allowing the story to unfold with a rhythmic pace that mirrors the artistry of cooking. Transitions between scenes are executed with precision, contributing to the overall immersive and engaging viewing experience. Throughout the film, recurring motifs and symbols add layers of meaning. The kitchen, a space of creation and transformation, becomes a metaphor for the protagonist's personal growth. Ingredients take on symbolic significance, representing the diverse elements that shape one's identity. The careful choice of mise-en-scène and props further enhances the thematic depth, inviting viewers to reflect on the nuances of the human experience. In conclusion, "The Cook" stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling, with its exemplary cinematography, sound design, and editing. Through recurring motifs and symbols, the film transcends its culinary narrative, inviting audiences to savor the profound layers of meaning embedded within each frame.

Brilliant amazing visuals. I was hooked the entire time. Excellent work!

Wow!!! Great short, love the twist! What song is that? It fit so well with the actors movement, it was like poetry. Bravo my friend

I don’t know why but i really feels this boy, he was in heaven before alluming the cigarette but after he is reminded by the reality great works!

I love the subtle lighting work. Tasteful!

Finest shots , well played music , Great visuals , good concept. Loved it

This struck me straight in the heart..💘

🔥🔥🔥

Song - a symphony Vltava by Bedřich Smetana

Amazing video upload, I appreciate you for sharing! Enjoy your day, my new friend Vincent👍❤

that was soo out of left field, i loved it! As an aspiring filmmaker im studying short films now and im glad i found your video, thanks for making it

so am I really the only one who thinks "cooking" refers to being high and the only reason he imagined himself as "a cook" is because the mind makes such creative correlations when we are... I mean, when people is high 🌚

The entire production on this is next level!! Bravo! Encore

MY POV: the character dreams of being a fantastic refined chef, however is addiction to weed turns him into a lonely sad person stuck in his own cycles and depression, it kills the drive and ambition. You can see in his journey, all of that preparation, time he dreamt to have spent in the kitchen crafting his art, preparing an astonishing dish, was actually spent rolling weed and serving it to himself. At end when he looks at his hands, his fingers are crooked, but not from using kitchen utensils. He looks absolutely miserable realising how much potential he would have had he focused on his dreams instead of weed. Is a beautiful metaphor for the dangers of weed addiction. I’ll finish with a sprinkle of hope. The knock on the door might just be his wake up call :)

This is amazing! What a great visual style and use of filmmaking language! Unreal. I'm such a fan.

That was beautiful. Thank you.

Sometimes, a meaningful short film can be enough to explain the source of all problems. nice video :)

You are sending a big message in these three and a half minutes.Very proud #direction #dop #music

wow! What an amazing plot twist and directing!

this is crazy because i literally THOUGHT of a short movie like this 😯😯 like two days ago, and now i’m seeing it in youtube

I think the message , powerful as it is , is to take pride in what one does . Even if its only rolling a joint .

A very powerful concept brought to us in a very simple manner.

Beautiful

Brilliant! 🙌👍

The cinematography was phenomenal!

Somebody had to write, star in, direct, and finish a high school project in a single day.

Amazing! I love the contrast between fine dining and the devil’s lettuce. Perfect lighting, great edit all round bravo vamossss

ஒரு சினிமா உலகில் இப்படியும் கதைக்களம் அருமை தான்

That's a mind-blowing short film 💯❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥great such a masterpiece 💯

Masterpiece. Congratulations on everything you've achieved, and im excited for what is to come

This is short, sweet and profound! Nice idea and execution.

Wow super brother i impressed ur screenplay... 😍😍😍brilliant story telling method... 💥💥💥👀👀👀

I really love the premise around in the story 😊

This dude went on a trip. Great storytelling.

😂 I was watching him prep like “why’s that look so much like weed” 😅😅

Vincent - this is brilliantly executed! Well done!

I see this litterraly one second lately became stoned, this is gold.

brilliant, just brilliant! very much Inspired

Beautiful! Everything about it. The sound design, transitions, lighting... Everything! Nicely done!! I'm subscribing for sure!

Very well done. Agree with others' comments, the pacing was excellent, the anticipation building before the reveal, and the fantasy elements of the all black background. Very well crafted, I watched it twice.

A very common and relatable experience that many chefs can share. Dreams of being able to run your own restaurant and create your own dishes to serve to people. But then, the chefs take a puff of smoke, sigh, and then return to cooking.

Dude was so cooked he was hallucinating. I didn't see where this was going, but I was just like let him cook lol

Brilhante!

That was incredible, simply referred to as the wake-up knock. 😊

As soon as I saw the dank being chopped up I knew it would take a turn😂

He’s convinced that he’s serving himself something special, elegant and amazing whenever he goes to smoke. But reality sets in as the feeling and anticipation fades, and he sees past the “wondrous” facade his indulgence has trapped him in… and he wonders… if he can be *more* than what he has been reduced to. ------------------ This is my personal interpretation of the film, the only part I feel I may not be fully accurate about, is the ending, as I’m not sure if he feels bleak or spaced-out when looking at his hands. I believe it’s bleak due to his expression, but he could also just be spaced and making some other realisation lol.

Aww🔥🔥Cinematography & Sound Design Is Top Notch💥💥

The plot twist was eye opening . Great work !

love this. Especially the cinematography. Well done 👏👏👏👏👏

Oh Thank you so much.

As a cook myself. Wake and bake is just part of the lifestyle

I enjoyed every minute of this short film...🤩

Bravo! Greatness!💖

Amazing visuals and cinematography!!

unpredictable, strong end!

The music, the shoots, i fucking love this short

Wow, that really surprised me. super creative!

That was excellent! The cinematography - *chef's kiss*

This film dives deep into the captivating world of culinary arts, exploring the passion, innovation, and creativity that thrive in cooking. The mysterious dish showcased might symbolize the constant quest for experimentation and the boundaries chefs continually challenge in their craft. Engaging Mystery: The mention of a mysterious dish hints at an intriguing element woven into the storyline. It promises suspense and surprise, adding an extra layer of excitement that keeps the audience engaged and eager to uncover the story's secrets. Ethical Dilemmas and Artistic Expression: Similar to many stories set in the culinary world, this film might tackle themes concerning ethical dilemmas, the freedom of artistic expression, and the intense pressures faced by individuals striving for creativity in a highly competitive industry. These themes often resonate deeply and spark discussions among viewers.

Beautiful ✨️