The romantic scenes were delivered with a quiet touch - an inquiry about how a woman takes her tea serving as a pick-up line, an arm wrapped around a man's waist indicating an established relationship.
There were moments of rich comedy, helped along by a cast of classics, and lovely scenes where Nighy and Dench teamed up with the sombre, kind and aching Graham, played by Tom Wilkinson.
At times, I felt the gorgeous sets and cinematography possibly out-performed the script.
One particular shot of a man wading into water to scatter ashes was hauntingly beautiful.
Anyone who has spent time in India will immediately recognise the beggars at the taxi window, the call to prayer in the milky morning light, the bright saris and clunky plumbing, and the common spectacle of travellers who obstinately fight the human tide, only to wake one morning and finally surrender to the chaos.
Older movie-goers might also recognise the world around them as the characters encounter the deaths of friends and loved ones, regret, purpose, and a second chance at love.
Title: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Restriction: PG
Running time: 118 minutes
Rating: 3.5 / 5 stars
