Tyler was killed by the staff of the restaurant as part of the evening’s macabre entertainment.
In the darkly comedic horror film “The Menu,” Tyler, played by actor Nicholas Hoult, is one of the guests at an exclusive restaurant on a private island, run by the enigmatic and intense Chef Slowik, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes. Tyler is a self-proclaimed foodie and an enthusiast of the culinary arts, who is familiar with Chef Slowik’s work and holds him in high regard. Throughout the film, Tyler tries to align himself with Chef Slowik, showing off his knowledge and attempting to win the chef’s favor.
However, as the night progresses, it becomes clear that Chef Slowik has a twisted plan for the guests, which involves a series of courses that serve as a critique of their pretentiousness, privilege, and the corrupt nature of the fine dining experience. Tyler’s eagerness to be part of the chef’s world and his failure to see the sinister nature of the evening’s events ultimately lead to his downfall.
In a shocking turn of events, Tyler is chosen for a demonstration by Chef Slowik. He is strapped to a chair and a small portion of his back is surgically removed by the chef, who then proceeds to cook and serve the flesh to the other guests as part of a course called “The Mess.” Despite his initial horror, Tyler tastes the dish and praises it, still desperate to be part of the elite culinary circle. However, his compliance does not save him. Later, as the guests attempt to escape the island, Tyler is killed by the restaurant staff, who are all complicit in Chef Slowik’s deranged vision for the evening. His death serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of blind idolatry and the dangers of losing oneself in the pursuit of exclusivity and prestige.