The Menu Timeline ( Real )

film_announcement
August 12, 2020

Announcement of The Menu Film

The film 'The Menu' was officially announced, bringing attention to a new dark comedy thriller exploring themes in fine dining and social class.

casting
May 10, 2021

Casting of Lead Roles in The Menu

Key casting announcements were made, including Ralph Fiennes and Anya Taylor-Joy as leads, generating buzz for the movie.

production
August 20, 2021

Start of Filming for The Menu

Principal photography for 'The Menu' began, marking the start of production for the movie.

film_premiere
September 10, 2022

The Menu Premieres at Toronto International Film Festival

The Menu had its world premiere, introducing audiences to its unique take on culinary horror and satire.

film_release
November 18, 2022

The Menu Theatrical Release

The movie 'The Menu' was released widely in theaters, allowing general audiences to experience the film.

reception
December 15, 2022

Critical Reception and Audience Response to The Menu

Critical and audience reviews of 'The Menu' were published, largely praising its creativity, performances, and thematic depth.

The Menu Timeline ( Fictional )

invitation
Day 1 - Early Evening

Gustav invites guests to Hawthorne

Chef Julian Slowik sends personalized invitations to a select group of guests to attend a special dinner at his exclusive restaurant, Hawthorne, located on a remote island.

arrival
Day 2 - Afternoon

Guests arrive at Hawthorne

All invited guests arrive by boat at the isolated island restaurant, greeted by staff and shown to the main dining area for the exclusive tasting menu experience.

dinner_start
Day 2 - Evening

Introduction of the evening and first courses

Chef Slowik introduces the evening's meal, setting expectations and the overall theme. The guests begin the multi-course fine dining experience with dishes crafted to surprise and unsettle.

conflict
Day 2 - Late Evening

Margot’s discovery and conflict with Slowik

Margot (Lizzy) starts questioning the authenticity and motives behind Chef Slowik's increasingly strange and dark menu, leading to tension between her and the chef.

revelation
Day 2 - Late Night

Revelation of Slowik's plan

Chef Slowik reveals that the entire dinner is a meticulously planned event to expose superficialities in the guests' lives, culminating in a final shocking act.

lockdown
Day 2 - Late Night

Dining room lockdown

The restaurant staff locks the dining room doors, trapping everyone inside to execute the final phase of Slowik’s plan.

finale
Day 2 - Midnight

Final course and conclusion

Chef Slowik serves the final course which includes the self-immolation of himself, concluding the dinner and leaving Margot as the sole survivor on the island.