Irving Perdomo is an award-winning, self-taught, and self-funded filmmaker whose work explores the people, passions, and pressures behind the culinary world. Before stepping behind the camera, Perdomo spent more than fifteen years working as a chef in some of the high-end kitchens of Philadelphia and New York City, building a career defined by discipline, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

His debut documentary, Zero Hour: A Chef’s Odyssey, offers an intimate look into his life as a chef, leader, and mentor, inviting audiences behind the kitchen doors to witness both the triumphs and sacrifices that define the profession. Through candid interviews and immersive storytelling, the film captures the intensity of service, the pursuit of excellence, and the moments of reflection that shape a chef’s journey.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Philadelphia’s food scene, the documentary celebrates the city’s culinary culture while confronting the often-overlooked realities of burnout, mental health struggles, and the personal cost of life in the industry. Drawing from his own experiences, Perdomo uses filmmaking as a platform to spark meaningful conversations about resilience, mentorship, and the importance of mental well-being in professional kitchens.

Just as he dedicated himself to mastering the craft of cooking, Perdomo now approaches filmmaking with the same passion, discipline, and commitment to excellence. His work is driven by a belief that the most powerful stories are found in the lives of everyday people pursuing extraordinary passions.