"The Menu" is a satirical thriller that explores themes of class, privilege, and the commodification of art. Set in an exclusive restaurant, it follows a group of wealthy diners who experience a meticulously curated dining experience that takes a dark turn. The film critiques the elite culinary world, revealing how the pursuit of perfection can lead to moral and existential dilemmas. Ultimately, it serves as a commentary on the disconnect between creators and consumers, highlighting the absurdities of high-end dining and societal expectations.

In "The Menu," Chef Slowik allows Margot to leave because she represents authenticity and real human connection, contrasting with the other guests who embody superficiality and entitlement. Throughout the film, Margot's genuine nature and her refusal to play along with the chef's twisted experience resonate with him. Ultimately, he recognizes that she embodies the passion for food and life that he has lost, leading him to grant her an escape as a form of respect and acknowledgment of her individuality.

"The Menu" is considered a horror movie due to its exploration of dark themes such as elitism, consumerism, and the grotesque nature of high-end dining culture. The film creates a sense of dread as it follows guests at an exclusive restaurant who are subjected to increasingly disturbing and violent culinary experiences orchestrated by the chef. This blend of thriller and horror elements, along with satire on societal norms and the consequences of obsession with status, contributes to its classification as a horror film.

"The Menu" is not based on a true story; it is a fictional narrative. The film, directed by Mark Mylod, explores themes of class, privilege, and the culinary world through a darkly comedic lens. It follows a group of wealthy diners who attend an exclusive restaurant on a remote island, where the chef has prepared an elaborate, unsettling menu. While it draws inspiration from real-life haute cuisine and the dynamics of fine dining, the plot and characters are entirely fictional.