Nobu Documentary Review: A Glossy Look at the Sushi Empire and Its Charismatic Founder

In Nobu, director Matt Tyrnauer offers a polished, affectionate portrait of sushi legend Nobu Matsuhisa, charting his journey from culinary setbacks to international stardom. But while the film is visually sumptuous and full of flavor on the surface, it often feels too safe — more promotional than probing.

At the heart of the documentary is the undeniable charm of Matsuhisa himself. Unlike the quiet intensity of Jiro Dreams of Sushi, Nobu presents a lively, extroverted figure who thrives in the spotlight. He’s a great storyteller, a gracious host, and, as the film emphasizes, a global brand. With over 50 restaurants and luxury hotels to his name, Matsuhisa’s rise is as much about business savvy as it is about culinary passion.

Yet for all the glossy food cinematography and elegant shots of minimalist sushi bars, the film rarely cuts beneath the surface. Instead of a deep dive into the artistry and discipline of Nobu’s cuisine, we get broad strokes — celebrity testimonials, lifestyle montages, and moments that seem designed to market the brand rather than analyze it.

Still, Nobu isn’t without substance. The film touches on the chef’s humble beginnings in Japan, his formative time in Peru, and eventual partnership with Robert De Niro, who makes a fiery appearance in a business meeting scene that jolts the film into a more grounded, candid space. There’s also a brief exploration of Nobu’s personal regret over a friend’s death, hinting at emotional depth that could have elevated the narrative had it been further explored.

Moments like these show the potential for a richer, more introspective documentary. But Tyrnauer largely opts for admiration over analysis, giving us a portrait of a man who achieved global success by sticking to simple values: quality, perseverance, and a deep love of sushi.

For fans of high-end cuisine or aspirational success stories, Nobu delivers a satisfying visual treat. But as a documentary, it plays more like a curated tasting menu than a full-course investigation — beautiful, well-presented, but ultimately lacking depth.