We see a lot of sequels, prequels, reboots and re-imaginings in Hollywood these days. But very rarely do we see it happen to a small film with no blockbuster effects and a central cast in their golden years!

So it’s testament to the quality of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel that this sequel has been quickly produced, bringing back together the wonderful cast from the first film along with some notable new additions – including David Strathairn and Richard Gere.

The film picks up with Sonny (Dev Patel) celebrating the success of his original establishment which, despite a rocky start, now has only one vacancy. His attention has shifted to his titular next project along with his upcoming nuptials. Meanwhile his retired guests find themselves at various relationship stages, many of which feel almost as foreign and confusing as the Indian culture shock experienced in the first film.

As you would expect this is not a significant departure from the first film – an ensemble comedy drama with a minor plot device to move things along and a whole lot of getting out of the way while these exceptional talents work and play off one another. If you’ve seen the first you’ll definitely be coming, if you haven’t seen it you’ll pick it up very fast and be enjoying yourself in no time.

Based on the bestselling novel by master storyteller Nicholas Sparks, The Longest Ride centers on the star-crossed love affair between Luke (Eastwood), a former champion bull rider looking to make a comeback, and Sophia (Robertson), a college student who is about to embark upon her dream job in New York City's art world.

As conflicting paths and ideals test their relationship, Sophia and Luke make an unexpected and fateful connection with Ira (Alda), whose memories of his own decades-long romance with his beloved wife deeply inspire the young couple.

Spanning generations and two intertwining love stories, The Longest Ride explores the challenges and infinite rewards of enduring love.