A One Mann’s Movies review of “The Menu” (2022).
“The Menu” is a delicious black comedy that delightfully skewers the pretentiousness of fine dining.
Bob the Movie Man Rating(s):
Plot Summary:
Food-lover Tyler (Nicholas Hoult) takes his date Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) to an exclusive island restaurant ruled over by the imposing Chef Slowik (Ralph Fiennes). But chef has a very different sort of menu in plan for his dozen or so elite guests this evening.
Certification:
UK: 15; US: R. (For (BBFC) “strong violence, threat, suicide, language, sex references”).
Talent:
Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Nicholas Hoult, Anya Taylor-Joy, Hong Chau, Janet McTeer, John Leguizamo.
Directed by: Mark Mylod.
Written by: Seth Reiss & Will Tracy.
Twitter Handle: #TheMenuFilm.
“The Menu” Review:
Positives:
- As a black-comedy/thriller it’s an engrossing roller-coaster ride of a movie that keeps you guessing at every turn. This is a movie worth going into cold if you can!
- There’s a triumvirate of fabulous performances at the heart of the movie, all perfectly cast. Anya Taylor-Joy goes from strength to strength, and she’s never been better. Those luminous eyes act all on their own. Nicholas Hoult is also fantastic, giving off some Nicholas “The Great” vibes in his attitude. A scene where ‘chef’ is whispering in his ear shows real acting talent. And Ralph Fiennes is as immaculate as always – when is he not? A truly sinister and disturbing turn.
- By the way, if you’re trying to place – as I was – the food critic played by Janet McTeer, she was the memorable villain from “Ozark”.
- The comedy is black but it is as delicious as the food on the menu. A film that well surpassed the “6-laugh” test.
- Colin Stetson delivers a score that leaves you on just the wrong side of uncomfortable.
Negatives
- I absolutely adored the first two-thirds of the movie, but I’m not completely sure they stuck the landing. Now that’s from the viewpoint of not having a clue HOW I would have ended the story! (To be honest, I just didn’t want it to end at all.)
Summary Thoughts on “The Menu”
There are a few cracking films around at the moment. This was a real treat. It had a deliciously dark Hitchcockian feel to it. Loved it!
Trailer for “The Menu”:
The trailer is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAWZMssP3gM. I’d recommend not watching to keep the palate fresh!
