Review of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015) by Olderandwiser — 08 Mar 2015

The original “Marigold Hotel” was a funny, charming, and perilous adventure that brought together a band of displaced senior citizens hoping to make a life in a ramshackle hotel in India. The sequel, “The Second Exotic Marigold Hotel” is less perilous perhaps, but equally delicious in it’s finely crafted script, lush locations and delightful performances by a cast of seasoned actors. This film presumes you know the basics of the original (best to see the first one first.).

In this one, hotel owner Sonny (Dev Patel) plans to expand with the help of Mrs. Donnely (Maggie Smith) and a U.S. investor. Sonny believes new guest (Richard Gere) has been sent to check things out. Most of the hotel guests have started new jobs—Douglas (Bill Nighy) is giving tours, Evelyn (Judi Dench) is a buyer for a fabric broker. But of course they all end each day in the twinkling glow of the “Marigold”.

Sequels are frequently a weak continuation of the original, but this sequel doesn’t disappoint. The dialogue is intelligent and genuinely witty enough to make you laugh out loud. The tapestry of life in Jaipur, India is depicted as less threatening and more colorful than in the first film, making “The Second Exotic Marigold Hotel” a treat to watch as romance seems to be bubbling up in every corner.

While Richard Gere may seem an unlikely add-on to this crew of aging hotel guests, you’ll savor every moment Bill Nighy, Maggie Smith and Judi Dench are onscreen. The film has depth that may be lost on younger viewers, as it drops the occasional poetic nugget of wisdom meant for those who have traveled a bit further in life.

It’s like going to your favorite restaurant. You’ll love what’s on the menu, you’ll enjoy every bite, and you’ll leave happy.