“Hotel Paradiso” (1966) is a comedy film directed by Peter Glenville. It revolves around a bumbling adulterous couple, played by Gina Lollobrigida and Alec Guinness, whose antics unfold at a quaint Swiss hotel. The movie is a chaotic mix of mistaken identities, illicit affairs, and exaggerated physical humor. With its witty dialogue and farcical situations, “Hotel Paradiso” is like a whirlwind ride through a labyrinth of laughter, where deceit and chaos reign supreme amidst the charming backdrop of a cozy hotel.
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Review
Hotel Paradiso: A Comedie of Errors in the Modern Age
Verily, good gentles, I present to thee a tale of mirth and folly, a grand work of art that doth combine the elements of comedy and tragedy in equal measure: “Hotel Paradiso.” This motion picture doth transport us to a distant land where love and treachery intertwine like the branches of an ancient oak, and where the machinations of fate bring forth both laughter and tears. Perchance thou mayest wonder at the peculiarity of this fair work, for ’tis woven together with words reminiscent of our age-old bard himself, William Shakespeare.
The storyline unfoldeth thus: at the heart of this story lies a small inn situated amongst the rolling hills, aptly named Hotel Paradiso. Within its walls reside many a character who shall play their parts upon this great stage. We encounter Monsieur Boniface (played gallantly by popular actor Alec Guinness), a kind-hearted yet deceived innkeeper, whose wife Felicie (personified by Gina Lollobrigida) doth keep him on his toes with her flirtatious ways. Alas, misfortune befalls poor Boniface when he discovereth that his beloved wife hath taken a lover.
A plot filled with intrigue unravels as Boniface believeth he hath found solace in an affair with Marcelle Cotte (played by Barbara Murray), utterly unaware that she is also involved with his son-in-law Henri (excellently portrayed by Robert Morley). Thus begins the most tragic dance indeed! Deception begets deception as lovers cross paths unbeknownst to one another within Hotel Paradiso’s hallowed halls.
Indeed, this tale is rife with hilarity and wit. The esteemed cast delivereth their lines in true Shakespearean fashion, bringing life to characters both virtuous and flawed. Guinness’s portrayal of the hapless Boniface doth evoke sympathy and amusement in equal measure, while Lollobrigida’s Felicie bewitches all with her charm and allure. Morley’s Henri, a man torn between loyalty and temptation, doth showcase his comedic prowess with every stride.
The history of this fair work reveals a tale of its own. Released in the year 1966, it was directed by Peter Glenville, a man renowned for his Shakespearean stage productions and adaptations. Glenville sought to capture the essence of Shakespearean comedy within a modern context, blending the timeless themes of love and deception with the trappings of mid-20th century France.
The score and popularity of “Hotel Paradiso” were well received by audiences far and wide. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Laurence Rosenthal with orchestration by Bernard Herrmann, doth transport us to an era long past. The lilting melodies danced upon our ears like fairies flickering through enchanted woods, heightening each emotion within the scenes.
Filming this masterpiece was no small feat; thy eyes shall feast on majestic locations across continental Europe. Scenes were shot in France and Italy, adorning each frame with lush landscapes that verily sing to our souls. The stunning cinematography captured blossoming gardens and ancient villages alike, enveloping us in a world both distant and familiar.
Critics did offer their evaluation of “Hotel Paradiso,” some praising its innovative approach to Shakespearean adaptation while others did chance upon faults within its execution. Nevertheless, it received recognition for its daring spirit at various prestigious award ceremonies.
Special effects were largely absent from this production; instead, the film relied upon the power of storytelling through dialogue alone. Thus was “Hotel Paradiso” able to remain true to the elegance and simplicity that Shakespeare himself commanded.
Thy humble servant offereth his opinion: “Hotel Paradiso” is a triumph not only for director Glenville and his cast, but for the rich tapestry of Shakespearean comedy. It is a true testament to the timelessness of the bard’s work, as it seamlessly blends together our world and his. This tale brings forth laughter and heartache in equal measure, reminding us that love is a tempestuous journey.
We bid adieu to “Hotel Paradiso” with fond memories of its vibrant characters, captivating scenes, and magnificent dialogue. Let us rejoice in this film’s legacy, for it doth remind us that even in our modern age, Shakespeare’s words continue to enchant and inspire.
Technical Data
- Release : 1966-03-01
- Runtime : 98
- Genre : Comedy
- Cast : Alec Guinness as Benedict Boniface, Gina Lollobrigida as Marcelle Cotte, Robert Morley as Henri Cotte, Peggy Mount as Angelique Boniface, Ann Beach as Victoire
- Crew : Henri Decaë as Director of Photography, Anne V. Coates as Editor, Irene Howard as Casting, Jean-Claude Carrière as Writer, François de Lamothe as Production Design
- Revenue : 0
- Budget : 0
- Company : Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer British Studios
- Popularity : 1.511
- Summary : Monsieur Feydeau has writer’s block, and he needs a new play. But he takes an opportunity to observe the upper class of 1900 Paris – Monsieur Boniface with a domineering wife, and the next-door neglectful husband Henri with a beautiful but ignored wife, Marcelle. Henri traces architectural anomalies (most ghost sounds are drains) and plans a night at the Hotel Paradiso, but this hotel is the assignation spot of Marcelle and Boniface. One wife, two husbands, a nephew, and the perky Boniface maid, all at this ‘by the hour’ hotel and consummation of the affair is, to say the least, severely compromised (not the least by a police raid). All of this is under Feydeau’s eye, and his play is the ‘success fou’ of the next season.
- Tagline : Make room for a riot!!!
