The Menu (2022) – Movie Review

In the world of modern cinema, where films often blend genres and challenge our expectations, The Menu (2022) emerges as a true standout. This film, directed by Mark Mylod, showcases a unique mix of dark humor, thriller elements, and social commentary, making it an intriguing watch from start to finish. We at 66 the FIX had the pleasure of experiencing this cinematic gem, featuring some of our favorite actors and actresses: Ralph Fiennes, Nicholas Hoult, and Anya Taylor-Joy. Initially drawn to the film solely because of its stellar cast, we found ourselves pleasantly surprised by the movie’s depth, cleverness, and the way it kept us glued to the screen.

Film Rating

First Impressions

Our journey with The Menu began with some hesitation. The trailer, while intriguing, didn’t fully capture our interest. It offered glimpses of a dark, possibly twisted storyline set against the backdrop of a high-end dining experience, but it left us unsure of what to expect. Was it a psychological thriller? A horror film? A satire? It was difficult to tell, and that ambiguity made us put off watching it for a while. However, as fans of the lead actors, particularly Ralph Fiennes, whose performances have always been compelling, we finally decided to give it a shot. And what a decision that turned out to be.

The Cast: A Perfect Ensemble

The cast is undeniably one of the film’s strongest assets. Ralph Fiennes, as the enigmatic and intimidating Chef Slowik, delivers a performance that is both chilling and mesmerizing. His portrayal of a man obsessed with perfection, willing to go to extreme lengths to achieve it, adds layers of complexity to the character. Fiennes’s ability to convey both power and vulnerability is on full display here, making Chef Slowik one of the most memorable characters in recent cinema.

Nicholas Hoult, playing the role of Tyler, is equally impressive. His character, a foodie who is obsessed with the art of cuisine, is both relatable and cringe-worthy. Hoult brings a certain naïveté and arrogance to the role, making Tyler’s journey throughout the film both fascinating and tragic. His interactions with Chef Slowik and Margot, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, are some of the most intense moments in the film.

Anya Taylor-Joy, as Margot, provides a perfect counterbalance to the rest of the cast. Her character’s skepticism and refusal to be charmed or intimidated by the pretentiousness around her make her a standout. Taylor-Joy has a remarkable ability to convey strength and vulnerability simultaneously, and in The Menu, she delivers a performance that is both grounded and captivating. Her character’s journey is central to the film’s narrative, and Taylor-Joy ensures that we are with her every step of the way.

The Story: A Delectable Feast for the Mind

The Menu offers a narrative that is as layered as the dishes served within its world. The film takes place in an exclusive restaurant on a remote island, where a group of wealthy guests, including Tyler and Margot, are treated to a unique dining experience by the famous Chef Slowik. As the courses are served, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary meal. Each dish is meticulously crafted, not just in its preparation but in the way it reveals aspects of the guests’ lives, their secrets, and their sins.

The film’s plot is an exploration of the relationship between art and consumerism, as well as the destructive nature of obsession. Chef Slowik’s devotion to his craft has pushed him to the brink, and the guests, each representing different facets of society, are unwitting participants in his final, grand statement. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping the audience on edge as the tension builds. What begins as a seemingly benign dinner quickly spirals into a nightmarish ordeal, where survival becomes the primary concern.

Themes and Symbolism: A Rich Palette

The Menu is rich with themes and symbolism that elevate it beyond a simple thriller. The film delves into the nature of creativity and the burdens that come with it. Chef Slowik’s character is a representation of the artist who has lost sight of his original passion, consumed by the demands of those who consume his work. His disdain for his guests reflects a broader commentary on the way society treats art as a commodity, something to be bought and sold, rather than appreciated for its intrinsic value.

The film also explores themes of class and privilege. The guests, who are all wealthy and influential, are shown to be detached from reality, viewing the world through a lens of entitlement. Their interactions with the staff, particularly the kitchen crew, highlight the stark divide between those who serve and those who are served. This class dynamic is central to the film’s tension, as it becomes clear that Chef Slowik’s dinner is more than just a meal – it’s a reckoning.

The use of food as a metaphor is particularly effective. Each course served during the dinner has a deeper meaning, often revealing uncomfortable truths about the characters. The dishes are not just culinary creations; they are pieces of art that challenge the guests to confront their own hypocrisies and shortcomings. The film’s meticulous attention to detail in these scenes adds to its overall impact, making the audience think about the broader implications of what they are watching.

Cinematography and Direction: A Feast for the Eyes

Visually, The Menu is stunning. The film’s cinematography captures the beauty and precision of high-end dining, with each dish presented as a work of art. The contrast between the opulence of the restaurant and the dark, foreboding atmosphere of the island creates a sense of unease that permeates the entire film. The direction by Mark Mylod is masterful, guiding the audience through a story that is both intimate and grand in scale.

Mylod’s use of close-ups and lingering shots adds to the film’s tension, making the audience feel like they are part of the dinner, sharing in the guests’ discomfort. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold in a way that keeps the audience engaged without ever feeling rushed. Each scene is carefully crafted to build suspense, with the final act delivering a payoff that is both shocking and satisfying.

Conclusion: A Culinary Masterpiece

In the end, The Menu is a film that exceeded our expectations. What began as a casual viewing driven by our love for the cast turned into a memorable cinematic experience that left us thinking long after the credits rolled. The film’s combination of stellar performances, a thought-provoking narrative, and striking visuals makes it a standout in the 2022 film landscape.

At 66 the FIX, we believe that The Menu is more than just a film – it’s an experience. It challenges the audience to think about the nature of art, the role of the artist, and the way we consume culture. It’s a film that stays with you, not just because of its shocking moments, but because of the questions it raises and the emotions it evokes.

We give The Menu a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars and 10 out of 10 stars. It’s a film that we highly recommend to anyone who appreciates cinema that dares to be different, that pushes boundaries, and that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers, dark comedies, or simply great storytelling, The Menu is a film that should not be missed.

So, if you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to set aside some time and dive into this deliciously dark and clever film. It’s a meal you won’t soon forget.