‘The Menu’ is a dark yet intriguing story

Category: Blu-ray's and DVD's

 

The Menu is a twisted, dark, gruesome, yet at times interesting story of conceit and revenge. It’s touted as a “dark comedy” yet there is little in the way of comedy. It is definitely dark, however.

Ralph Fiennes stars as Chef Slowik who owns and runs a high-end restaurant on a secluded island. This film takes place in one night as several guests gather for a lavish meal. Included on the guest list are a rich and self-centered couple (Reed Birney and Judith Light), a movie star and his assistant (John Leguizamo and Aimee Carrero), a famous food critic and her friend (Janet McTeer and Paul Adelstein), a group of businessmen (Rob Yang, Arturo Castro, Mark St. Cyr), and a foodie with his friend (Nicholas Hoult and Anya Taylor-Joy). They all expect a fabulous meal but what they get is murder.

The island and restaurant are amazing. The setting is beautiful and the food presentation is magnificent. But there is something off about the night. Chef Slowik insists on referencing every course with a personal discussion about a story related to the course and what went into creating the food.

While everyone in the restaurant was invited for this special night, there is one last minute substitution. Margot (Taylor-Joy) was not invited and was brought by foodie Tyler who is over-the-moon at being able to eat in the establishment of his idol. Margot, on the other hand, is not excited about the food or the Chef. He is intrigued by her as Tyler’s date and does everything he can to learn more about this uninvited guest.

This black comedy (I would refer to as dark horror) has received good reviews by critics. While there are some interesting elements, the film is definitely a twisted look at life and revenge.

The Menu is now available digitally and will be available on Blu-ray on January 17, 2023. It is rated R for strong/disturbing violent content, language throughout and some sexual references. It’s not for kids or the squeamish.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA. Follow her on Twitter.