THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL

While aimed squarely at the burgeoning baby-boomer/retiree market, both films have a lot to teach us young’uns too. This film emphasises that just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can’t still face the excitement and perils of life, from new love, infidelity and jealously, to unexpected directions in career and family. Evelyn’s struggle is particularly touching – at 79, faced with scary new prospects, she’s both enamoured and terrified, at times choosing to hide rather than make a choice. It’s achingly familiar to all of us, no matter our stages of life.

Questions about aging and death are raised, sometimes with hilarity, and at others with a poignant seriousness; usually presented expertly by Smith. There’s a Shakespearean quality to it – one moment you’re laughing, the next you feel close to tears. The many strands of the various stories are woven together well, and are easy to follow. Editing is unobtrusive for the most part, with only a moment or two of flash-cut induced discomfort. The soundtrack is similar to the first film – Indian infused instrumental that meshes well with the visual but never distracts from it. The film is shot beautifully; from the opening scenes in the USA to the return to India’s brash colour and striking scenery. You develop a real affection not only for the characters, but also for Jaipur itself; the bustle, the people, the hospitality.

The ending is ambiguous, leaving the audience to draw their own conclusions as to the characters’ future - and for me, is the one moment of confusion that I felt could have been handled better. Nevertheless, ‘The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ is as good as the first, and I highly recommend it... especially if you plan to take your Nan.