The BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL  3.4****

 

  A truly exceptional film, featuring the very best of the older  British actors and actresses; Dame Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Dame Maggie Smith, Tom Wilkinson, Penelope Wilton, Liza Tarbuck, and Ronald Pickup star in the this delightful film. These seven principle characters  have all come to a point in their lives where remaining in the UK is no longer feasible, mostly due to financial reasons. Each has stumbled across a brochure outlining the wonderful possibilities that await them in India at a newly refurbished Marigold Hotel. Enrollment into the hotel facilities includes the flight to India as well. However, upon arrival; it seems that the facilities are far less luxurious than advertised. When seven British retirees arrive at a hotel that is not as expected from the brochure. Dev Patel's ( “Slum Dog Millionaire”) Sonny runs the place under the watchful eye of his disapproving mother and the Britishers are left to dust off the furniture and make do with the cockroaches on the floors and the curry served up every dinnertime.

 

The central characters are 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-centered, bitter, scolding Jean portrayed by Penelope Wilton, who is also excellent.   When you add the likes of Dames Maggie Smith and Judy Dench to the mix, the delicious Celia Imrie, Tom Wilkinson and Ronald Pickup, who brought a wonderfully  comedic performance to the mix,  you can't go wrong.

 The film follows each individual through his or her path of awakening; for each individual has come to India for a different reason. A very charming film, well-acted, well scripted, and well directed. The Marigold Hotel is located in Jaipur in northern India and the India backdrop for this film is exquisite!!! I highly recommend this film… a joy to behold.