Soul Kitchen, 4min., Japan
Directed by Hakhyun KIM
The head chef “Cookoo” awakens from his slumber and begins to cook.
He cooks, and cooks, and cooks—without pause.
He cooks endlessly, unceasingly, until death.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

After creating my previous work, DESK BUGS, I felt a strong desire to create something even more tightly integrated with music. Since I composed the music for DESK BUGS myself, I was able to tweak both the sound and the visuals simultaneously, which was a great process. However, for this project, I wanted to see how deeply I could synchronize my animation with an existing track. I had fallen in love with this specific track by Legendary beast aka. [[[E]]], so I reached out to them and began the animation process.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

It took exactly one year from conception to completion. For an experimental project, I feel it was just the right amount of time.3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Visual Rhythm.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Maintaining focus and momentum while balancing the project with my other professional work.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

I was truly happy to see the reactions—thank you so much. The comment about the “Adult Swim feeling” was spot on. If they ever come calling with an offer, I’m ready!

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

It’s because animation is a comprehensive art form that compresses music, movement, storytelling, painting, and rhythm into one medium. Because of its sheer breadth and depth, I never get bored, which makes it the perfect fit for someone like me who usually seeks constant change.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

There are too many to choose from, but in terms of pure repeat viewings, it would probably be Oldboy.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Nothing specific at the moment.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

The platform is very user-friendly and easy to navigate, though the fees can be quite high.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Chocolate.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

I am currently experimenting with a new drawing style, working with even smaller frame sizes than the ones used in this film. Once I’ve refined that technique, I plan to start writing the script for my next short animation.