By Layla Meléndez | February 6, 2022
When “The Menu” started, there was only one word that came to mind: cannibals! It was marketed as a horror film, and this was the most horrifying dining experience I could think of. I was quickly proven incorrect when actual food made with standard ingredients was served. “The Menu” follows Margot, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, and her date through an exclusive dining experience by renowned chef Julian Slowik, played by Ralph Fiennes.
At his restaurant, called Hawthorne, Slowik hosts affluent guests who represent the bane of society. He hates them. Climbing up the culinary ranks and serving those of the upper class caused Slowik to become enamored with cooking. He also felt disregarded and disrespected by these guests. A couple who had been there 7 times could not even name one dish they tried! Naturally, Slowik decides as a punishment and lesson that he will handpick all the guests one night, planning for everyone in the restaurant to die. However, when Margot shows up with her date, Slowik’s plans begin to unravel. She was the only guest not picked by him, skewing his predetermined guest list.
"The Menu” was marketed as a horror/thriller so going in, I did not expect it to be so funny! One comedic success was Slowik’s drill-sergeant-esque yelling in the kitchen. Something about a room full of grown adults chanting, “We love you, Chef,” at their boss had me cracking up. As for the Horror/Thriller aspects, I personally did not feel as though it fit into those categories at all. I did not squeal or jump out of my skin not once. To me, it felt more like a drama, than a film with the power to frighten. Apart from this, Anya Taylor-Joy gave an amazing performance. She portrayed Margot perfectly, playing a strong heroine who is a force to be reckoned with. All in all, I enjoyed “The Menu” and would watch it again.
“The Menu” receives a 10/10 from me. "The Menu” can be streamed on HBO Max, and I hope anyone who watches it enjoys the film as well!