Marigold Hotel

There really is no movie that everyone likes, so my summary isn't exactly surprising. However, more than most movies, this one will probably have polarized views from audiences. If you appreciate films with characters studies, then you should love "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel". If you prefer action or something very much like the typical Hollywood fare, then this film is definitely NOT for you!

This movie is about a group of elderly Brits were are brought together by a common thread--they have great difficulty affording their twilight years and see an ad for the Marigold Hotel in India. They each realize that retirement or surgery would be MUCH cheaper there so they arrive in a completely foreign land--with traditions, culture and rules which are practically nothing like home. Some adapt very well to their new land, some definitely do not--but it's all an adventure and voyage of discovery where each learns more about themselves--as does the audience. Sometimes, the results are a bit formulaic and predictable but very often they are not--and that makes the film very likable. I also like that the older folks in the film are NOT the usual 'cute' oldsters you see in films--they have sexual urges, difficulties, flaws and hidden longings. Exceptionally well acted and directed and a joy for this reviewer.

Fist of all, anyone who has given this film a score of one (and some have), obviously have no sense of humour. If they are in the UK then they probably watched the film at a free viewing like I did, as it hasn't been released yet, and they have no right to slag it off seeing at it cost them jack. Once it is released to paying customers, I can assure you that this score will go up considerably.

The title can be a little off putting but anyone who has seen "Fried Green Tomatoes At The Whistle Stop Cafe" will tell you that a daft title is not a precursor to a bad film. Far from it.

I came out of the cinema exhausted. The range of emotions this movie drags out of you, and the speed it does it, is incredible and I have to thank the scriptwriters and director for that. It is a while since I saw a movie that made me laugh out loud so much and so frequently. Dev Patel's character is one of the most likable you will ever come across but then all the characters, bar one, have characteristics that just grow on you.

It's a shame that Ronald Pickup and the beautiful Celia Imrie aren't shown on the poster as they are just as responsible for the enjoyment I got from this film as the other "more famous" members of the cast.

This is a great film that will have you crying and laughing in equal measure but in the end will leave you with that really warm feeling inside that you get when you have just seen a classic.

Do not be put off by the title and ignore the current score this film has until it starts to get up to at least an 8.

Marigold Hotel was overall a very pleasant film with a distinct feel-good factor - helped by the vibrancy of the Indian setting. Judi Dench is excellent as always, and Bill Nighy really captures the child within for this film. In fact, all of the cast were superb, although Dev Patel suffered from a little overacting! The plot is more like a moral, and explores a 'young at heart' theme throughout. I think the vision of the film is somewhat confused at times. It seems to shift from a full-on comedy to a film about ageism, and it doesn't flow as well as one would hope. Also, Maggie Smith's character (although superbly played) is a slightly far fetched transformation, so I would have liked to see more focus on her throughout the film. Overall though, a nice, entertaining piece of work. Perhaps not as good as you would expect from such a star-studded cast, but nevertheless, very entertaining!

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel was a nice dramedy which had a very great storyline coupled with wonderful performances by the veteran actors.

Evelyn(Judi Dench) Is a divorcée who lost her husband recently and want to clear off her husband's huge debt as early as possible, Grasham (Tom Wilkinson) is a gay who is retired and still not happy after his retirement , Douglas and Jean (Bill Nighy and Penelope Wilton) are married couples who are going through rocky phase in their marriage , Norman (Ronald pickup) is single, old broken man who still young at heart and Muriel is seeking a company of filthy rich guy. Different people with different stories meet at broken , mediocre , filthy yet described as "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" in Jaipur. They are unhappy with what was promised to them over them over an advertisement about the hotel but still are fascinated by its unique and authentic charm.

Based on a novel of same name by Deborah Moggach , "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel " entertains you right from the beginning where every person meets at the hotel till the end. John Madden has perfectly chosen each actor playing their part to T. Each actor has different story to tell which makes it more engrossing and compelling. Direction is impressive with few scenes standing out like the one where Grasham tells his reason of coming to India, Jamal explaining the pretentious glamour the hotel . Screenplay keeps you engrossed in the film that you would not realize when the film ends. Cinematography is eye-catching where the setting of India is the reason I was disappointed little bit. How many have we seen India in poor light by Hollywood ? This is probably some tenth movie which I have seen after Slumdog millionaire and The Avengers. However , the stupendous performance by the leading actors is what it makes it stand out. It is difficult is tell who were the best as I felt that everyone did justice to their part but I guess it is Dev Patel who was really impressive as young chap trying to save his ancestor property and impress his girlfriend. Judi Dench was as usual superb along with Bill Nighy and Tom Wilkinson.

A marvelous film in every context with brave and impressive performances. This one is sure to be enjoyed with your family. Good 3.5 /5

Just got back from having seen this wonderful film at a packed cinema and I'm still smiling. It really is the most entertaining, colourful and uplifting film I've seen for a very long time. Apart from India itself - which is a star in its own right - it is the performances from this stellar cast that really make this movie. At times it was like an acting masterclass, but never at any time could you see the cogs turning. The central characters were all wholly believable, and to be honest I find it impossible to single anyone out, although if I had to, my vote would probably go to Bill Nighy. He is just superb as Douglas - the apologetic, hesitant, henpecked husband of the self centred, bitter, scolding Jean portrayed by Penelope Wilton, who is also excellent. There is one particular scene between the two, where Douglas, for once bites back - and the emotion from Nighy is just mesmerising to watch. When you add the likes of Dames Maggie Smith and Judy Dench to the mix, the delicious Celia Imrie, Tom Wilkinson and Ronald Pickup (with an honourable mention to the latter, who brought a wonderfully rakish comedic performance to the mix) - and you can't go wrong.

The younger cast members and all the supporting players do an excellent job - but it is the oldies who steal the show. That doesn't mean it's an oldies film - far from it. I took my 16 year old daughter and she laughed, cried and loved it as much as I did.