Cast
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Alec Guinness
as Benedict Boniface
Gina Lollobrigida
as Marcelle Cotte
Robert Morley
as Henri Cotte
Peggy Mount
as Angelique Boniface
Ann Beach
as Victoire
Douglas Byng
as Martin
Derek Fowlds
as Maxime
David Battley
as George
Peter Glenville
as Georges Feydeau
Akim Tamiroff
as Hotel Proprietor
Eddra Gale
as Hotel Guest
Robertson Hare
as The Duke
Leonard Rossiter
as Inspector
Darío Moreno
as The Turk
Marie Bell
as La Grande Antoinette
Crew
Director
- Peter Glenville
Writer
- Peter Glenville
- Jean-Claude Carrière
- Maurice Desvallières
- Georges Feydeau
Producer
- Peter Glenville
Reviews
CinemaSerf
I really struggled to enjoy this... Despite the great casting, it just seemed to border all to frequently on the wrong side of farce for me. Basically, it all boils down to poor old Alec Guinness ("Boniface") stuck in an unhappy marriage with the formidable "Angelique" (Peggy Mount). This couple are neighbours to "Marcelle' (Gina Lollobrigida) who is married to "Henri" (Robert Morley), a husband who largely leaves her to her own devices. When "Angelique" goes to see her poorly sister and "Henri" has to go away for work - "Boniface" proceeds to confess his long-held, undying, love to "Marcelle" and suggests they decamp to the eponymous establishment for an hour or two's entertainment... What ensues now is a semi chaotic collection of almost slap-stick encounters that are frenetically paced, with relentless dialogue and more parallel themes than I could really be bothered to keep up with. Lollobrigida looks every inch her part, and Guinness is quite engaging as the rather ingenuous "Boniface" but the rest of it is just too shambolic for me. Looks great though, lots of great costumes, sets and vintage cars.
Sep 2, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Hotel Paradiso represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Peter Glenville brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1966, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Hotel Paradiso took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 137 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 225 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1358 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Hotel Paradiso shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike EuroTrip, which focuses more on action than character development, Hotel Paradiso offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like An American Werewolf in Paris and Kill Your Darlings explore similar territory, Hotel Paradiso stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 1, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 38m
