The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011) Review in 2025
A heartwarming story about a group of British retirees who move to India and find love, friendship, and a new lease on life.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but it may not be of interest to younger viewers due to its mature themes and some mild language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of comedy-drama and romance. It's a heartwarming and uplifting film that will leave you feeling inspired and hopeful.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie follows the story of Evelyn Greenslade, a recently widowed woman who joins her friends at the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in India, where they find a new sense of purpose and belonging. Along the way, they face various challenges and learn to let go of their pasts and find love again.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear structure and a satisfying resolution. The characters' journeys are believable and relatable, and the plot twists are well-executed.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with outstanding performances from the entire cast. Dame Judi Dench and Bill Nighy deliver particularly memorable performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique personality and backstory to the table. The cast delivers excellent performances, with standout roles from Dame Judi Dench and Bill Nighy.
direction8.50/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision and a strong sense of pacing. The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the vibrant colors and textures of India. However, some scenes feel a bit formulaic and predictable.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of India's landscapes and cities. The color palette is vibrant and rich, and the lighting is excellent.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and engaging story make it a standout film. The cast's chemistry is undeniable, and the movie's themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery are timely and relatable.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit formulaic and predictable, and the pacing could be tighter in places. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not getting any younger, and I'm not getting any wiser."
"I'm not sure what's more exhausting, the heat or the bureaucracy."
"You can't hurry love."
