I saw the menu about a year or so ago and I still think about it regularly. To me that’s a powerful achievement.
The key scene to me is where the chef says “I told all of you I was going to kill you yet none of you fought back very hard.” (Paraphrased)
I read this as, the customers have made ‘status for status sake’ so central to their lives, that when death comes, they have nothing of substance to push back with. Like a killer who wants to be caught, some part of them wants there to be a reality outside their empty bubble, and death would heal this subconscious fear that nothing exists outside themselves.
Whatever the case, The Menu is straightforward enough that almost anyone could enjoy it, yet it also invites deeper discussion for those who want it. That mixture of accessibility and depth is something I aim for and on that level, I really appreciate this film!
I remember watching this when it came out. The idea isn't too hard to grasp and occasionally has funny moments, but ultimately is not enjoyable to watch. I guess as you nailed it with the word "anti-audience" lol. The movie just isn't fun to watch.
I saw the menu about a year or so ago and I still think about it regularly. To me that’s a powerful achievement.
The key scene to me is where the chef says “I told all of you I was going to kill you yet none of you fought back very hard.” (Paraphrased)
I read this as, the customers have made ‘status for status sake’ so central to their lives, that when death comes, they have nothing of substance to push back with. Like a killer who wants to be caught, some part of them wants there to be a reality outside their empty bubble, and death would heal this subconscious fear that nothing exists outside themselves.
Whatever the case, The Menu is straightforward enough that almost anyone could enjoy it, yet it also invites deeper discussion for those who want it. That mixture of accessibility and depth is something I aim for and on that level, I really appreciate this film!
Thanks for writing this!
Never seen it. Will look into it.
I remember watching this when it came out. The idea isn't too hard to grasp and occasionally has funny moments, but ultimately is not enjoyable to watch. I guess as you nailed it with the word "anti-audience" lol. The movie just isn't fun to watch.