Review of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012) by Nikki W — 15 Mar 2013

Easily one of my favourite movies of 2012, a superb cast cosy up to the idea that retiring in Britain isn't all it's cracked up to be and decide to head for sunnier climes in India.

I love the small scenes as we first meet the ensemble cast and see their reasons for making this life-changing decision.

Each character is very different and Judi Dench's character Evelyn lets the audience experience what she is seeing; a noisy, vibrant, beautiful and somewhat crazy city that will test them all in various ways, the film also looks gorgeous and the dialogue sparkles as the characters start to get to know each other.

Judi Dench is wonderful and plays Evelyn with charming subtlety whilst Celia Imrie's Madge is straight to the point and has some very funny lines, as does Ronald Pickup's Norman.

Maggie Smith's Muriel is quite hilarious as she displays a complete fish out of water persona and I love her scenes with Seema Azmi's Anokhi, the maid she befriends.

Penelope Wilton is very good at making Jean annoyingly stuffy, but I love the contrast in her relationship with long suffering husband Douglas, who is such a nice and optimistic guy, brilliantly performed by Bill Nighy in one of my favourite film roles for him to date.

Tom Wilkinson also gives a lovely performance as Graham which is quite touching.

Dev Patel is truly brilliant as Sonny as he 'sells' the hotel for all its worth and you can't help but be swept up by his enthusiasm and charm. I also really like Tena Desae as Sonny's girlfriend Sunaina and his Mother played by Lillete Dubey.

Not only is this a sweet, funny and moving film with an amazing cast, the script is what draws you in, it really is a pleasure to spend 2 hours watching these characters and experience a small piece of India just for yourself.

Beautiful, inspiring and heartfelt, watch this to lift your spirits and sooth your soul.