Directed by Jamal Burger and Jukan Tateisi, Still Single follows Chef Masaki Saito, Toronto’s first (and only) two Michelin Star chef. Although Saito began in rural Hokkaido, his desire to perfect his meals helped transform Toronto’s fine dining landscape. Intensely building every morsel to its maximum appeal and taste, Saito is a man of expertise and creativity. However, his approach to Omakase dining also leads to an intense lifestyle that fuels his culinary spirit.
In many ways, Saito is a mystery wrapped in an enigma. As they follow him around with their cameras, Burger and Tateisi give him the opportunity to share his dreams and goals in his own words. As a result, Saito’s journey feels entirely authentic. He’s a man of honesty, willing to share his feelings without filter. However, Saito’s character becomes more fully fleshed out when we get pictures of him from other people. Every interview with former staff offers a slightly different perspective on the star chef. To some, he’s a mentor. To others, he’s a friend. And, to all, he’s demanding.
Through numerous conversations, Burger and Tateisi allows Saito to paint his own perplexing portrait of himself. He’s charming, aloof, obsessive and perfectionistic. As such, Saito comes across as a mixture of opposites. There’s an undeniable charisma about the man that makes you wonder why he spends so much time alone. But we also watch him disconnect from family and friends, we wonder how he can work with anyone. He is driven by success but doesn’t entirely know if there’s a level of it that will truly satisfy him.
Which, again, makes Saito’s solitary life so fascinating. He seems to revel in his individuality yet also remains committed to building special moments for others. He loves family but the film shows moments where he struggles with his own family relationships at home. He is a man of connection. He’s also a man who stands alone. His humanity serves as a counterbalance to his superheroic efforts in the culinary world, making for a delicious character portrait.
Still Single is playing at TIFF ’25. For more information, click here.
