The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

A Sweet, Irreverent, Cheeky British Film

Based off a popular novel of the same name, the movie tells the story of several cash-poor English retirees who travel to India looking for sex, love, rebirth, closure and/or adventure. Naturally, things go awry for the bunch starting with their arrival at the less than desirable Marigold Hotel. But through a series of follies, trials and adventures the gang grows closer to one another and they manage to learn a valuable lesson in the process: it's never too late to seek out new beginnings. Played by the creme de la creme of British acting royalty, the cast of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, inspires and dazzles. Dame Maggie Smith plays the feisty and untouchable xenophobe, Muriel, who comes to India unwillingly to receive a hip replacement. If there's one thing Dame Smith can play, it's surly and she does so with a wryness and bitterness that is both sad and cheeky at the same time. And what makes her so lovable is not only the humour behind her situation, but the redemption that comes along with it. Actually, this goes for all of the cast. Then we have Bill Nighy and Penelope Wilton as your testy, argumentative old couple. Nighy is open, he's an explorer whereas Wilton is unwilling and set in her ways. They come face to face with a drastic decision regarding the nature of their marriage. Tom Wilkinson, as Graham Dashwood, comes to India looking for his long-lost love. Then there's Dame Judi Dench as our main narrator, Evelyn Greenslade. She goes to India after the death of her husband seeking closure but really as more of an escape. What she finds, however, is a fresh start and a new outlook on life. Most of the action centers in and around the Marigold Hotel with Dev Patel playing its struggling manager, Sonny Kapoor. Every time he takes the screen, he steals the scenes with his fervent hope and optimism. Perhaps what I love the most, though, is that India itself is another prime character of the film. We're given a bird's eye view of the vibrancy of Jaipur from the crowded streets to the colourful markets and the serene customs. It's a whimsical and refreshing vacation folding out right in front of your eyes. I think what makes the setting stand out so much is the allusion created using the stark contrast between the India's progression and the old colonial habits of the British characters living there. It's poignant and powerful.The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a sweet, irreverent, cheeky film featuring some of the greatest British actors of our time. While it can be a bit predictable at times, the movie's ultimate message is an endearing one that speaks to the heart. This isn't just a film for folks in their golden years, it's one of those powerful movies that can be enjoyed by adults of all ages because the themes are super relatablel. This movie will make you laugh and cry, smile and admire. And if anything, you'll be in a state of wanderlust for quite some time.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

ok to watch but was hoping for more. started stronger than it fi

ok to watch but was hoping for more. started stronger than it finishes.

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

I always give top ratings to Judy and Maggie, so don't believe m

I always give top ratings to Judy and Maggie, so don't believe me. This movie is close to documentary horror/travelog. I thank God I didn't have to actually Live it myself.

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Highly recommended, especially for fans of Maggie Smith!

I saw this in the theater, and it was beautifully done; beautiful settings, great story, amazing cast, including the always-amusingly-crotchety & witty Maggie Smith, and one of my other favorite Brit actors, the equally great Bill Nighy, who has an amazing talent for playing quietly understated roles! The Indian settings & colors were also lovely to look at, too! I highly recommend this touching, warm & funny movie!

Wonderful Movie!!!!!

Love this movie, can't wait to get the DVD!!!!!

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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