The Menu (2022) Explained

A darkly comedic thriller released in 2022, “The Menu” explores themes of class, artistic disillusionment, and the nature of food as an art form. Directed by Mark Mylod with a screenplay by Seth Reiss and Will Tracy, the film centers around a group of wealthy patrons who travel to Hawthorn, a secluded island restaurant helmed by the enigmatic Chef Julian Slowik (Ralph Fiennes).

A Devious Tasting Menu

The film opens with young couple Tyler (Nicholas Hoult) and Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) arriving at Hawthorn. Tyler, a self-proclaimed foodie, is excited by the prospect of a unique culinary experience, while Margot seems more skeptical. As the evening progresses, it becomes clear Chef Slowik has prepared more than just an extravagant meal. The multi-course tasting menu takes increasingly bizarre turns, with each dish a veiled commentary on the guests’ pretentiousness and shallow appreciation for fine dining.

Chef Slowik’s Revenge

As the night unfolds, tensions rise and secrets are revealed. Chef Slowik’s frustration with the affluent clientele who take his artistry for granted becomes evident. The staff, portrayed as a cult-like group devoted to Slowik’s vision, participate in increasingly disturbing acts throughout the meal.

Margot, the Anomaly

Margot stands out amongst the guests. Unlike Tyler and the others, she possesses a genuine appreciation for good food and lacks the pretentious air that surrounds the rest. This resonates with Slowik, reminding him of a time when his passion for cooking wasn’t overshadowed by the demands of a wealthy clientele.

A Fiery Conclusion

The film culminates in a shocking climax. Chef Slowik and his staff enact a twisted form of revenge on the guests, exposing their hypocrisy and shallowness. The fate of the characters remains ambiguous, with only Margot escaping the island seemingly unscathed.

The Menu: Food for Thought

“The Menu” offers a thought-provoking exploration of several themes. It critiques the elitism of the fine dining world and the commodification of the culinary experience. Additionally, the film delves into the psyche of an artist grappling with the loss of passion and the destructive nature of resentment.

Burning Questions Answered

Here are some lingering questions viewers might have:

Q: Why does Chef Slowik target his guests?

A: Chef Slowik feels his artistic vision is disregarded by the wealthy clientele who prioritize social status over the actual food. He uses the elaborate menu as a way to expose their shallowness and lack of appreciation for his craft.

Q: What is Margot’s significance?

A: Margot represents a connection to a simpler time for Chef Slowik. Her genuine appreciation for food, devoid of pretense, reminds him of the joy he once found in cooking.

Q: Does anyone survive the evening?

A: The film’s ending leaves the fate of most characters unclear. However, Margot is shown escaping the island on a boat, suggesting she is the sole survivor.

Q: Is the ending ambiguous?

A: Yes, the ending is open to interpretation. While Margot appears to escape, some viewers question whether the events are real or a twisted fantasy constructed by Chef Slowik.

Q: What is the overall message of the film?

A: “The Menu” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of artistic disillusionment and the consequences of prioritizing wealth and status over genuine appreciation.