3.5/5 stars
Mark Mylod’s first on screen project since over a decade ago, The Menu, is the latest psychological horror/thriller to jump on this genre’s bandwagon following the success of Hereditary (directed by Aster, 2018). The film takes place on a remote island which houses the supposed greatest restaurant on earth, run by Ralph Fiennes' character, an obsessed chef who dedicates his life to his art. The other lead (played by Anya-Taylor Joy) is the new girlfriend of a food fanatic who together embark on this culinary journey which, through thirteen courses, helps them and the other diners to discover themselves but, in actuality, discovers lies, crimes and infidelity. The fun does not stop there, as this once in a lifetime experience quickly descends into a game of survival that will certainly only occur once in their lifetime.
Overall, the film succeeds in being entertaining, mysterious and - in some moments - shocking. The narrative is told through the dining experience, with each course becoming more experimental and dedicated to bringing justice to the diners. Each character receives dishes that reveal their secrets or confront their flaws. Anya’s character is unique compared to everybody else, with no interest in the art of food, which foreshadows her becoming the typical horror “final girl”. It’s a good thing the film doesn’t take itself too seriously, otherwise its premise and purpose wouldn’t connect with one another, and the film would be another big budget flop that lacks common sense. Since it proudly features over the top characters, a human s’more and the key to freedom eventually being a cheeseburger, plot holes and laughable ideas become irrelevant to an overall pleasant viewing.
Where the film does falter is its dialogue and some acting performances. The characters often seem unfazed and content despite their friends being hunted, their lives being threatened and after watching two people die. They seem distraught and in desperate need for help in one scene, yet peacefully eating in the next. There is no doubt they are uncomfortable and anxious, but the majority of their expressions are the same as those from the calm and safe opening of the film. Whilst this does not entirely ruin things it simply distracts the viewer, as they are left to question if the people on screen entirely lack empathy.
Some outstanding elements of The Menu are the performances of Ralph and Anya for one, with Ralph perfectly portraying the ‘obsessed artist’ trope. For the first two thirds of the film he is commanding, passionate and charismatic, with a glint of insanity in his expressions. This character completely changes when confronted with the magical cheeseburger, as he becomes nostalgic, caring, when with thankful eyes he allows Margo to live. Anya initially portrays Margo as laid back and endearing to her boyfriend. As the events of the night unfold, she breaks down and is frightened, which turns into confidence as she discovers the chef's interior weakness - his need to satisfy with his art.
There is a high chance the film could’ve taken the route of another generic horror if it wasn’t for Mark Mylod’s directing. He conveys the story through the dining experience format with his deep focus on the food and descriptive text that introduces each meal.
All things considered, The Menu succeeds in providing moments of horror, confusion, and humour. It is original, enjoyable and will forever change the way you see s’mores.