The Menu (2022) is one of the more unique films I’ve seen in recent years. The movie combined comedy and horror seamlessly, which is not typically done these days. From its star-studded cast to its aesthetically pleasing scenes, the film creates a fair balance between comedy and shell-shock horror, making for a unique experience that leaves everyone in the audience just as shocked as the person next to them. The crowd’s visceral reactions sustained an actual theater experience,  hearing everyone else’s reactions similar to yours. 

There were times when I was confused as to where the story was headed. Although it wasn’t a negative confusion, I was simply waiting to see where the story would go. It was one of those films where you had no idea what exactly was coming. There was no sitting in the theater trying to piece everything together, you just had to strap in and stay along for the ride. I had no intention of guessing what was next, which rarely happens to me while watching films. I wanted to follow the storyline and be surprised with each new turn. On one hand, this could be seen as a jab at the screenwriting, but in my opinion, it was rewarding to be able to watch the film for what it was rather than filling in the holes myself when there was no need to. This movie was a horror, yet it did not leave you guessing or with any questions at the end. The ending was perfect, as it left no cliffhanger. 

This film implements themes from earlier horror films like Midsommar and The Hunt flawlessly. Ari Aster’s influence is seen in this film, although not specifically from the terror perspective itself, but from the aesthetic of his horror films. As for the editing and transitions, I must tip my hat to Wes Anderson. The splicing of scenes and inclusion of chapter titles was Anderson-like. Most of the audience’s laughs came from these title cards. It was a simple yet effective comedic route. 

The Menu has paved a way for a new horror subgenre with its intense self-awareness and witty, quick turns. As for its uniqueness and awareness of our present society, it pinpointed the lengths people will go to meet their idols and the price they will pay for a specific and popular experience. 

It depicted just how far people will go to get scared or to get their money’s worth.

Overall, throughout watching the film, I was unsure of it, but it never left a bad taste in my mouth…Although leaving me speechless and with my mouth agape at times, I walked away from the screen feeling connected to the strangers I watched the movie with because it felt like we were all on the same page after viewing it: confused yet fulfilled. Watching this film was definitely an experience, ironically. It was an experience watching this movie about people paying for an experience. 

If you are itching to view an unpredictable horror film that isn’t horribly mind-bending but laced with snarky comedy, I recommend adding The Menu to your watch list. 

Review Courtesy of Katie Mann