The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
2015 review number 29:
The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel: (Drama/Comedy): 65 out of 100: The sequel to the 2011 box office hit reunites the same cast members with a new addition to the hotel guests in Richard Gere. It is a feel-good movie that has the central themes of another hotel being added to the franchise along with a wedding being planned, intertwined in several sub-plots, some interesting and others not so interesting.
Sonny (Dev Patel) is in America with Muriel (Maggie Smith), co-manager of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. He plans to expand on his one hotel and asks some American backers to fund his expansion dreams. When they return to India, we are reacquainted with Evelyn (Judi Dench) and Douglas (Bill Nighy) who have a burgeoning romantic union. There's also Norman (Ronald Pickup) and Carol (Diana Hardcastle) who are negotiating the perils of an exclusive relationship and Madge (Celia Imrie) who juggles two wealthy suitors. In this mix of hotel guests is Guy (Richard Gere) who may or may not be the assessor sent by the American financial backers to evaluate the hotel. All these sub-plots revolve around the wedding that is being planned between Sonny and Sunaina (Tina Desai).
The highlight of this sequel is the location shooting which delightfully showcases the sights and sounds of India. The score by Thomas Newman also has an Indian flavour to help set you in the mood for all things Indian. With some talented and experienced actors on show, you will not be let down by the actors for they all deliver sterling performances.
The main problem with this sequel is the numerous sub-plots taking place. These inflate the running time to a little over two hours and regrettably, some of these stories are a tad boring. The plot doesn't really offer anything new; it's rather tame and more of a pleasure ride that is instantly forgotten after you see the movie.
Although the narrative isn't always engaging, there is some funny dialogue. The comedy works better than the drama as the latter verges towards the melodrama. You still have an interest in the characters' relationships but you'll know that some of your emotions are being manipulated.
If this sequel is as popular as the original, I wouldn't be surprised if the next installment is named "The Third Best Exotic Marigold Hotel". Hopefully if the third movie is made, there will be a more interesting storyline and fewer sub-plots. Those who enjoy a feel-good movie will enjoy this more than those who are more critical and reflective viewers.
Starring Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Dev Patel, Bill Nighy and Richard Gere
(122 minutes)
Parental advice: Mild coarse language and sexual references
Additional scene during or after credits: No
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O96og_f-Omk (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Sunday 22nd February, 2015)
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