janet eyler

We went to see this on Thanksgiving as it was our kids' year with the inlaws out of state. Such a pleasure to watch a movie that is well written and with great actors. Fienes and Taylor-Joy are fantastic and the supporting cast including John Leguizamo, Nicholas Hoult, Judith Light, Hong Chau, Janet McTeer and Paul Adelstein were all excellent. A great cast really makes a difference. It was hilarious on the front end especially if you have ever eaten at pretentious restaurants. The final dessert scene was reminiscent of a night at Alinea (although Achatz's food is also excellent). The terror builds slowly and unexpectedly at first. We soon come to understand why THESE guests deserve to be at this dinner, except for Margo/Erin. The resolution was predictable -- you kind of knew where it was going with the Taylor-Joy character from midway through, but the nice touch of her noticing where the chef got his start at a diner to her effort to 'give him something he wanted' and earn his gratitude were nicely done. Excellent movie; not for everyone. (If you liked Pulp Fiction, you will like this one.)