Review of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012) by Blake P — 14 Sep 2013

A funny, touching, heartfelt, and poignant drama, "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" is a breath of fresh air in a day-of-age where veteran actors are usually put in supporting roles in blockbuster movies.  Look at Judi Dench as M in the new James Bond series; Maggie Smith as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter movies; Bill Nighy as Davy Jones in "Pirates of the Caribbean".  The list could go on for ages.  So it's truly exciting to see them all headlining a wonderful film that reminds us why they're so legendary in the first place.

The film tells the story of a handful of old people who decide to vacation in India to get away from it all. What at first is supposed to be a simple holiday turns into a rather complicated one, as it seems that the world of India might be perfect to live in for the last few years of their lives. It doesn't take long before many of them rediscover themselves, and find love after it seems like it wouldn't be possible.

Automatically, the premise of "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" doesn't seem very enticing: a group of elderly people staying in a fancy hotel in India? It sounds like a cross between "Eat, Pray, Love" and "Amour".  But it isn't.  All of the characters are somewhat quirky but also mostly lovable, and the fact that the trip is one of their last is sad.  Yet, the film doesn't revolve around that. The theme of starting over feels good, and it all ends on a high note.  Having the characters go to India and once again learn to enjoy themselves once again makes them almost seem younger.

John Madden's direction is excellent; he boasts the utter beauty and color of India in a way that reflects the joys that the characters are feeling.  He easily balances darker moments and comedic ones, to a point where all on display feels realistic and not manipulative.  Madden handles the ensemble easily, in a way that resembles an older (and British) version of the cast of "Friends". They all are given enough highlight to where their individual stories stand-out and compel us.

The acting, of course, is simply magnificent, and it isn't one bit of a surprise.  Dench is simply lovely as Evelyn, a woman who is trying to get her life back together after her husband dies; Smith is even better as the cynical Muriel, who is beginning to realize that kindness can go a long way.  Wilkinson is deeply touching, and perfectly reflects the regret and sorry felt by Graham; Nighy is magnetic as his character is forced to decide whether or not to make a big life change.  Everyone here gives great performances.

"The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" is a beautiful piece of escapism that warms our hearts while still being intelligent and witty.