Review of The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015) by Tanvir M — 16 Jul 2015

The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a most welcome sequel to the original movie which pleased the audiences with outstanding cast and a touching, light-hearted, exotic story. Needless to say, the second installment exploits the already working formula of blending a group of formidable actors with Indian romance, energetic comedy and a glimpse of existential drama. Those who truly enjoyed the original movie and do not mind seeing more of the same would definitely have a pleasant time watching the sequel, but for the others, searching for something different, the feeling of "been there-seen that" is inevitable.

The story continues months later, when the young, ambitious and hyper-active Sonny is pitching to American investors for a financial injection in order to expand his business and create a franchise. This all happens in the midst of the final preparation for his engagement and different things happening with the guest of his hotel. As it could be expected new sub-plot lines are added to the story in order to make it more compelling and some of them surely succeed to keep the movie satisfying. This is especially valid for Richard Gere's introduction into the story and the soft, elegant romance he is trying to start with Sonny's mother. Yet, the center of the story (at least for me) is the extraordinary, touching, restrained and quiet romance between Judi Dench and Bill Nighy. Predictable and clichéd, it is still awesomely beautiful mainly because of the performances of these two British Hollywood-heavyweights.

Speaking of predictability, these two sub-plot lines could not fully compensate for the almost annoying part of Dev Patel and all the problems surrounding his wedding and the extension of the franchise. Indeed, they add a lot to the overall pacing of John Madden's movie but not enough to completely differ The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel from its predecessor.

In conclusion, the verdict of this passable dramedy is hidden in its name. A passable , home entertainment experience , The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is actually truly second to The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.