The Royal Hotel (2023)

In the heart of the scorching Australian Outback, where the land stretches endlessly and hidden truths lie beneath the surface, filmmaker Kitty Green weaves a gripping story in The Royal Hotel. The film explores simmering tensions, clashes of cultures, and the unsettling side of small town life. It all takes place in a mining town where Liv (portrayed by Jessica Henwick) and Hanna (played by Julia Garner), two American backpackers, find themselves caught up in a series of unsettling encounters after taking on temporary jobs at The Royal Hotel. As they navigate this territory and its surroundings, Liv and Hanna face unwelcome stares, inappropriate remarks, and an overall sense of unease. The hotel patrons consist of a group of locals and transient workers who seem to operate within their insular world. Behind their camaraderie lies an undercurrent of hostility directed towards these two women.

Director Green skilfully builds tension throughout the film by revealing the aspects hidden within this town’s underbelly. The atmosphere is thick with foreboding, as moments of violence and subtle acts of intimidation punctuate the narrative. The vastness and seclusion of the Outback itself become characters in their own right, reflecting how Liv and Hanna increasingly feel trapped amidst their surroundings.

The performances in the film are truly remarkable. Henwick and Garner bring Liv and Hanna’s growing unease and desperation to life with nuance. Their characters are richly complex, making them relatable to the audience. Although their backstories are hinted at but not fully revealed, it only adds to the enigmatic of the film.

Hugo Weaving delivers a haunting performance as Bill, the owner of the Royal Hotel. There’s something unsettling about his presence, especially when you look into his eyes and sense a multitude of hidden secrets that remain undisclosed throughout the film. Weaving’s portrayal is understated yet carries a menace that seeps through every scene. He perfectly embodies the themes of isolation, power dynamics, and the concealed dangers lurking beneath their lives. His performance is a masterclass in acting, contributing to an underlying feeling of unease and dread throughout.

Bill’s partner in managing the Royal Hotel is Carol, portrayed by Ursula Yovich. Carol is a woman who takes care of the cooking and maintenance of the hotel. She’s a character with layers of complexity that often leave us guessing her intentions. As she witnesses the disturbing behaviour of the hotel guests and its impact on Liv and Hanna, her loyalty to Bill becomes uncertain. Her relationship with him is characterised by both affection and resentment, which gives their relationship dynamic depth. She acknowledges his imperfections and the hidden darkness that lies beneath the surface. She remains dedicated to him out of a sense of responsibility or lingering affection. Yovich delivers a nuanced performance as Carol, effectively capturing the character’s strength, vulnerability, and internal struggle. Her portrayal adds depth and intricacy to the movie, delving into themes of power dynamics, clashes of cultures, and the complexities of relationships.

The film’s soundtrack combines haunting melodies with moments of silence in harmony with its unsettling atmosphere. The cinematography beautifully captures both the allure and menacing nature of the Outback landscapes. The editing is precise and creates a feeling of urgency and impending calamity.

Personally, I found the film’s exploration of clashes between cultures and gender dynamics particularly impactful. Liv and Hanna’s experiences vividly illustrate the vulnerability and isolation faced by women in male-dominated environments. The movie also touches on themes of exploitation and power imbalances as these young women endure forms of intimidation and control. However, unlike portrayals where women are often victims of male dominance and abuse, The Royal Hotel resists victimhood by showcasing how Liv and Hanna navigate their circumstances in a way that challenges traditional film tropes.

The Royal Hotel is a thought-provoking movie that leaves a lasting impact after the credits roll. It serves as a warning about the perils of venturing into uncharted waters, both physically and culturally. Moreover, it highlights the spirit of women who find themselves in difficult circumstances. The skilful direction by Green and the outstanding performances by Henwick and Garner make this film an absolute must-see. If you appreciate thrillers and movies that delve into the darker aspects of human nature and behaviour, this well-crafted film will linger in your thoughts long after its final scene.

(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)