Hotel paradis

The phrase "laughing through your tears" must have been invented for this little jewel of a movie. Yes, there are scenes that I would have preferred they omit (mainly the brothel scene-- oh brother). But the overriding emotion in the performances of both Dalton and Edwards is riveting. And Dalton CAN play comedy. Don't play this for the monthly meeting of the AARP; but if hope and love mean anything to you, take a couple of hours and watch it. It can be life-changing.

This film has always stuck in my mind as the one that moves me like no other. I've had it on vhs taped off the telly for 14 years now, and when I need a good cry it's always the one I turn to. After recently losing a close relative to cancer, I am now aware of how important it is to laugh and be positive in the face of adversity. A real gem, with incredible performances from the cast, especially Timothy Dalton who is fantastic. This is also a chance to see the fabulous Janet McTeer in a very early role. See it now! (If you can find it that is!)

Profound film which deserves to be far wider known and is fondly remembered by all who have seen it. Ok it was remade to much greater affect by Til Schweiger as 'Knocking on heaven's Door' (1997) but this is still a meritorious effort deserving of praise. This is a trying theme and many will feel the subject does not provide suitable entertainment. I think the cinema is one of the most poignant and appropiate places to discuss and elaborate on such weighty matters as it succeeds in elevating the mundane and overtly pessimistic where other media fail. In cinema everything is possible, good, bad or indifferent. A draining experience yes, but a life affirming one.

I could understand what the main characters were going through. When I saw the movie, I was 5 years free of Terminal ill Stage4 Hodgkin's Cancer. I was told I would not make it to my 30th birthday. I am now 42. I had many the same feelings and attitude of the main characters in the movie. I think it is an excellent movie.

I wasn't sure I was up to watching this movie knowing the subject matter. I was at the bedside of two of my closest women friends when they died of cancer. Well, I can truly say I found this movie uplifting, inspiring, and joyful. Timothy Dalton (Bancroft) and Anthony Edwards (Deck) are wonderful in their respective roles of the two cancer patients who decide to enjoy themselves while they still can. I enjoyed the developing friendship of the men and their relationships with the women Hazel and Maureen who they meet in Holland. Camille Coduri and Janet McTeer are believable in these strong women roles. Mr. Dalton deserves praise for his courage in taking on such an off-beat role. His performance in this heart-warming movie shows once again his versatility and talent as an actor as well as his devotion to his craft. It has been a long time since I have laughed and cried so hard in a movie.