Review of Bad Times at the El Royale (2018) by Kevin P — 13 Jan 2019

Strengths: For the most part, the concept behind this movie isnâ(TM)t super original, but the execution is. Drew Goddard does a phenomenal job handling this entire movie. The screenplay, also written by him, is solid and sets up plenty of twists and turns to keep you interested. His style makes for a great looking movie and the little quirks like the title cards are cool. The acting lifts things up across the board. Jeff Bridges (Donald Oâ(TM)Kelly) is better than Iâ(TM)ve seen him in a while, Dakota Johnson (Emily Summerspring) gives easily the best performance of her career, Jon Hamm (Dwight Broadbeck/Seymour Sullivan) is his usual great self, and Cynthia Erivo (Darlene Sweet) surprised me in the first film Iâ(TM)ve seen her in. However, the show stealer is Chris Hemsworth (Billy Lee). He doesnâ(TM)t show up until late in the movie, but is easily the best part. He portrays a charismatic cult leader and not only is he captivating in the role, as soon as he arrives, the ante of the entire movie is upped. I really appreciate how the movie manages to keep a lot as a secret until the very end. You want to find out just how everything will end and youâ(TM)re on the edge of your seat until then.

Weaknesses: Thereâ(TM)s a major flaw in the movie as soon as you see the runtime. Two and a half hours isnâ(TM)t too bad for a lot of movies, but it was for this one. There are several scenes that feel like theyâ(TM)re just there to pad things out. It was ambitious to a fault at times. The flashbacks and telling the story in a split format was also weird. For example, thereâ(TM)s a scene where someone gets shot behind a mirror. It cuts to other characters leading up to that moment and it just becomes obvious whatâ(TM)s going to happen. The ending ultimately also leaves something to be desired.

Overall: Drew Goddard handles this movie with care and has a clear vision for what he wants to do. With great acting, a stylish look, and some killer twists and turns, this is a truly fun movie. Cut it back to about two hours and it could be an all-time great.