The Hotel New Hampshire

The Hotel New Hampshire is a captivating and thought-provoking film adapted from the best-selling novel by John Irving. Released in 1984, it features an ensemble cast including Rob Lowe, Jodie Foster, and Paul McCrane, who deliver stunning performances that form the backbone of this quirky yet intense family saga.

The narrative centers around the distinctive Berry family, helmed by their adventurous father, played with an eccentric charm by Beau Bridges. Inspired by his boarding school days, he dreams of converting a series of unusual buildings into a chain of hotels. The first, an old schoolhouse, becomes the "Hotel New Hampshire."

The narrative unfolds primarily through the eyes of John Berry, played by Rob Lowe. Lowe does an admirable job portraying a young man simultaneously navigating the currents of adolescence and the peculiarities of his family. His performance is poignant and honest, lending an authenticity that grounds the film.

Jodie Foster plays John's sister, Franny. However, foster brings to life, with depth and sincerity, a character that is just as complex and intricate as John. The film explores Franny's progression and her emotional evolution as she grapples with experiences that shape her adult life in the hotel. She shines in the role, deviating from her earlier roles in film and hinting at the consistent trail of versatile performances she would continue to deliver throughout her career.

Paul McCrane plays Frank, the oldest Berry sibling who adds another flavour to the proceedings with his idiosyncratic qualities. The dynamics among the siblings, and indeed the entire family, offer a myriad of comedic, dramatic, and even unsettling moments, reflecting the eclectic mix of genres that the film straddles.

The Berry clan further consists of Egg and Lilly, the youngest ones, each of whom add their distinctive flair to the mosaic of this colourful family. The mother (played by Lisa Banes) exists as a loving but somewhat faded presence alongside the assertive force of the patriarch.

Each episode of the Berry family's journey encapsulates its unique atmosphere, helped immensely by the set design and the cinematography. The 'hotels', in particular, establish the milieu of each act in the story, almost acting as characters in their own right. From the central "Hotel New Hampshire" to their sojourn in Vienna, each space mirrors the development and growth of the family.

The narrative explores complex themes of love, growth, identity, and the power of dreams. Despite the family's unorthodox lifestyle and the ensuing chaos, a strong current of love and unity binds them. They stay connected through incredible highs and devastating lows, growing together in ways that are as unexpected as they are profound.

The movie also shines a light on the broader world outside the family, highlighting their encounters with a variety of individuals and groups. They engage with different cultures, face off against political unrest, and reckon with the shifting societal norms in the face of their steadfast traditions.

One significant aspect of The Hotel New Hampshire is its tone. The film maintains a balance between humor and pathos, absurdity and realism, creating a blend of elements that is as amusing as it is shocking. The movie vacillates between comedy and tragedy within moments, reflecting the undulating waves of life itself.

Director Tony Richardson does a commendable job of orchestrating a narrative that could very easily spiral into a chaotic jumble. He skillfully steers the plot, ensuring that while maintaining its unusual ambiance, the movie remains rooted in the humanity of its characters.

The Hotel New Hampshire might come across as off-kilter with its unconventional narrative and eclectic characters, yet it holds its ground with its firm commitment to its unique story. It's a movie that chooses to run free with its various elements - comedy, drama, romance, and tragedy - knit together with the unique fabric of the Berry family life.

To summarize, The Hotel New Hampshire is an evocative story of a family’s journey, delineated with a particularly quirky world view, peppered with moments of joy, sadness, and absurd humor, carried along by strong performances from its ensemble cast. Its distinct narrative framework and rich character dynamics make it a must-watch for those seeking a departure from conventional storytelling.