This a worthy sequel and whilst, like all sequels, the originality of the first film is now eroded, this is has retained the quaint delights of the characters as they continue their lives in India. There's plenty of comedy and romance and a plot, of sorts, about mistaking guest for a hotel inspector by the ever enthusiastic but socially clumsy owner played by Dev Patel. In many ways it's the same plot of the Fawlty Towers episode, The Hotel Inspector. But the overarching theme here is about life and time and how there's no point wasting opportunities regardless of age. The cast here are what makes this so entertaining and we get the addition of Richard Gere and David Straithairn joining Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Celia Imrie and Maggie Smith amongst others. Lovely little film, ok not as good as the first but still a nice feel good one.
I enjoyed the original film - it was a light bit of fluff but well put together and one could be interested in the character development. But this, the sequel, just doesn't make it. There are the occasional humorous bits, but the significant characters, especially Sonny, are over the top, the plot development (if you can call it that) is transparent, and there was nothing to hold my interest. I must admit to only getting about half way through it before giving up and turning it off.
Richard is just one of the gang here. Would have to really act out of his suit to take on this lot! Maggie just cruises along, like a ship with no sails and no engine, but is effortless up-stage all the way through.
If you like the first film, you will be OK with the second. Some decent bite here and there if you concentrate