Sunday, 26 February 2012

FILM: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (dir: John Madden, 2012)

"How many husbands have you had?"
"Including my own?"

Stereotypes ahoy in this Slumdog extra-light for the 'mature' cinemagoer.  The superb cast of fine British actors play effortlessly, giving surprising heft to the mix of characters whose individual plot-lines are occasionally prodded into life and ultimately weave together effectively if not altogether unexpectedly by the end, and Dev Patel again proves to be a strong screen presence for the younger viewers.  Whereas Danny Boyle's film played out in a tougher, younger India with lots of flashy style, this much gentler affair - and gentle is the key word to describe the film - revels in the subtlety of the acting and developing relationships, particularly notable with Maggie Smith and her 'untouchable' maid.  There are some good one-liners scattered throughout the film, the score is delightful, and whilst its meandering and languid style does flag at times, Madden's film is generally well-delivered and solidly entertaining.

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