“The Menu” ventures into the cinematic landscape, potentially reshaping one’s perception of fine dining permanently. Initially shrouded in an atmosphere of foreboding and darkness, the film gradually unveils itself as a biting satire aimed at the ultra-rich who flaunt their wealth through extravagant culinary experiences. Director Mark Mylod delicately navigates the line between depicting the indulgent patrons and the cunning chefs orchestrating elaborate meals aboard a drifting ship, charging prices that defy reason.
At the core of this eccentric and peculiar satire lies Ralph Fiennes’ commanding performance. In the role of the orchestrating chef, Fiennes exudes a palpable aura of malevolence and menace rarely seen even among the most chilling of antagonists. While audiences may remember Fiennes for his noble roles, such as in Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List,” here he captivates equally as he embodies evil in the form of Chef Slowik. The irony is poignant; having portrayed a character who saved Jews in Spielberg’s film, Fiennes now embodies a Jewish character orchestrating a smaller-scale tragedy, enveloping his culinary persona in an aura of mystery and chaos.
Without Fiennes’ captivating performance and unwavering moral compass, my interest in the film would have waned significantly. At one point, he brazenly threatens an actor, played by John Leguizamo, participating in the extravagant feast, suggesting he’d go as far as ending his life due to a displeasing performance in a previous film.
Hong Chau’s portrayal of Elsa, Slowik’s faithful deputy, is equally compelling. Despite her gentle demeanor, she delivers chilling commands, embodying an emissary of fate, such as ordering the severing of a disobedient guest’s finger.
Amidst the fearful and indistinct figures of the guests, Anne Taylor-Joy shines as the rebellious Margot, refusing to be a pawn in Slowik’s malevolent game.
While the film’s premise of culinary revenge is intriguing, it struggles to maintain its sinister momentum. My interest waned when Margot simply requested a cheeseburger without the pressure of cooking and eating it.
Clearly, the film faces no such pressure. Beneath its veneer of culinary vengeance lies a shallow, ‘B’ grade horror flick, lacking substance and depth.
| Aspect | Summary |
|---|---|
| Film Synopsis | “The Menu” offers a biting satire on the extravagantly wealthy who flaunt their opulence through lavish dining experiences. Directed by Mark Mylod, it navigates the line between patrons and chefs. |
| Ralph Fiennes’ Performance | Fiennes delivers a commanding portrayal of Chef Slowik, exuding malevolence and menace. His character embodies a poignant irony, contrasting his past noble roles. |
| Supporting Cast | Hong Chau shines as Elsa, delivering chilling commands with a gentle demeanor. Anne Taylor-Joy stands out as the rebellious Margot, refusing to be a pawn in Slowik’s scheme. |
| Film’s Strengths | Fiennes’ captivating performance and the film’s premise of culinary revenge offer intrigue and depth. |
| Weaknesses | Despite its initial promise, the film struggles to maintain its sinister momentum and devolves into a shallow ‘B’ grade horror flick. |
