Review of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012) by Paul S — 20 Mar 2013

For all of the criticism about this screenplay being too contrived and self assured, there is a life affirming heart beating here, and of course it doesn't hurt that the beating heart is in the hands of some of the best actors in the biz.

Sure, you probably will come away from this film not knowing anything new, but I know I walked away with a smile on my face. Yes, everything comes together, the guy gets the girl, etc. but at the core this film is about living - that it is particularly relevant to those of a certain age is irrelevant, as the message would be the same regardless of the age bracket.

The film starts in a rather shaky fashion, giving us the names and the impetus for each cast member to be heading off to India. Then you have the travel log bonding sequence and some slightly amusing culture clash stuff... but then slowly the film shifts gears and reels you in, giving each character a chance to breath and become more than a caricature, helped in no small measure by the superb understated acting of the core group of Brits. From the easy command and yet vulnerable Tom Wilkinson, to the henpecked gentle man portrayed by Bill Nighy, each performance has not a hair out of place. And heaven forefend if I neglect to mention the women folk: you have the two actresses from Downton Abbey, Penelope Wilton and Dame Maggie Smith... and for good measure, throw in another Dame with Judi Dench. All three are spot on and make the lyrical British script sing.

The film also gives a slight glimpse into Indian mores and values, from the remnants of the caste system to the arranged marriage and importance of family and honor - but that conveniently gets a wink, wink, oh nevermind bit of short shift from the script, as if attempting to bring serious drama into the affair would somehow ruin the lighthearted mood... but regardless, this film has many a fine moment and recovers from the shaky beginning to give you good solid entertainment and a life affirming, feel good mood that prevails. Not a classic, but you could certainly do much worse. As is stated several times during the film "Everything will be all right in the end and if it's not all right, then it's not yet the end" - a nice way to say keep on keeping on.