Movie Review - Bad Times at the El Royale

Bad Times at the El Royale **** (out of 5) (R) This darkly comic suspense flick is one of those delights I can only recommend, but not explain. The less you know going in, the more of a treat it will be. In the late 1960s a handful of guests check in at the titular resort, nestled in forested mountains straddling the Nevada/California border near Tahoe. It was obviously a posh getaway in its prime, but now is almost empty, leaving only one weird employee to provide all services. One gets the sense that the arrivals may not be truthful about who they are, and/or why they’ve decided to stay there. One would be largely correct, and still surprised by the parade of “reveals”. Jeff Bridges, hometown fave Jon Hamm, Dakota Johnson and one of the Hemsworths (probably Chris) lead an excellent cast.

Despite their cumulative talents, the film’s biggest asset is the screenplay by director Drew Goddard. The resort is also a major “character”, as its looks and unique features make all the plot’s elements and twists possible. The story unfolds as a combination of Coen Brothers, classic film noir with a dollop of Quentin Tarantino, on a Wes Anderson set. That’s four solid compliments, with a synergistic bonus from how well they mesh.

No details coming from here to spoil the freshness. Just see it before everyone else talks too much. Expect nominations when Awards Season begins. (10/12/18)

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