Plotted in that classic pulpy chopped up way, Goddard makes the most of the genre tropes by filming his story with restrained pacing, to milk each emotion out of each moment. His El Royale is one of those sets which is a character all to itself, like the Overlook Hotel. He follows the examples of master crime fiction by giving his story and multiple characters a healthy backstory so that what happens on this stormy night is full of the kind of gravitas this sort of caper requires. His collection of malcontents and misfits converge on the seedy location for a night few will survive. Goddard knows how to grip us, entertain us, and perhaps fill us with a bit of social commentary at the same time. All of it comes together to make a sensational film.
His cast is very strong with Bridges headlining but Hamm, Johnson, and Pullman giving strong backup. And even though Hemsworth is once again seemingly cast just so he can strut around without a shirt on, he is also strong playing against type. Watch closely for a cameo by fellow writer/director Xavier Dolan. This is a character piece. Each one of the cast is essential and central to the narrative. But it is Cynthia Erivo who steals the show. As the struggling singer she is not just the heart of the movie but the soundtrack as well. You can read everything in her face. She is riveting throughout. She is a rising star and one to watch for sure.
Bad Times at the El Royale is pure pulpy magic, a truly entertaining and satisfying story, filled with all the tension, violence, and redemption this sort of story serves up. It makes me excited to see what sort of genre Goddard will take on next.
Bad Times at the El Royale
Starring: Jeff Bridges, Cynthia Erivo, Dakota Johnson, Lewis Pullman, John Hamm, Chris Hemsworth, Cailee Spaeny
Writer/Director: Drew Goddard
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