Hotel Sahara

"Hotel Sahara" (1951) is a delightful blend of drama, comedy, and satire set during World War II. The story unfolds in an isolated hotel in the Sahara Desert, where various armies pass through during the conflict. The film offers a unique perspective on war, infused with refined humor and comical situations that explore human complexity in times of crisis.

Peter Ustinov, in his first leading role, delivers an outstanding performance, bringing charm and charisma to the main character. He carries the film brilliantly, keeping the audience engaged throughout. Yvonne De Carlo also shines in her role as the wife, adding elegance and versatility to the narrative.

The story presents hilariously absurd situations as the protagonists strive to keep the hotel intact, accommodating each occupying army. The direction skillfully balances humor and tension, creating a compelling cinematic experience. While there is a brief moment where the pacing feels slower, the film quickly regains its captivating momentum.

"Hotel Sahara" is a gem of classic cinema that combines excellent performances, intelligent humor, and a creative storyline. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys films set during World War II with a lighthearted and entertaining approach.

Uproarious World War II farce about the hotel of the title. Yvonne DeCarlo and Peter Ustinov as the proprietors, trying to survive the war but sitting in just the right place in the desert that the hotel changes sides depending on how the battle is going that week. The British move in, then out as the Germans move in, then out. Yvonne DeCarlo changes her personality, her wardrobe and her musical numbers to fit whoever the current occupiers happen to be. Hilarious ending has all sides occupying the hotel all at once. And you thought Yvonne DeCarlo was just Herman Munster's wife! Too bad this one isn't on video somewhere. Well worth a look if you happen to run across it.

"Hotel Sahara" is billed as a comedy, romance and war film. It takes place during the early days of World War II in North Africa. And, various men in the uniforms of Italy, England, Germany and France are part of the story. But that's about all there is to do with the war, except for some firing of rifles in one scene and a couple of mines exploding. The romance is questionable, and the comedy is very slight. What there is of it is situational.

There's no dialog in this film that will make one laugh of even chuckle. There are no antics, pratfalls or incidents of slapstick. The film has considerable frenzied activity, mostly with the hotel staff scurrying about to change motifs from one nationality to another. Changing a wall picture hanging from Mussolini to Hitler is the height of humor.

Yvonne De Carlo sings some songs - it seems to be a vehicle mostly for her to play different roles as the fiancé of the hotel owner. Peter Ustinov is good in his role, and most of the rest of the cast are fine. So, just for their effort and a good set with filming I stretch and give this film six stars. But, if one is looking for a good comedy or a time to have some laughter, it's best to try another film.

Peter Ustinov in a fez is of course hilarious in his first lead for a director other than himself, but who'd had thought Yvonne De Carlo could have been so funny? (Particularly the way she demonstrates what "a creature of infinite variety" she is by swiftly switching personalities to accommodate Albert Lieven.)

Blessed with appropriate music by Benjamin Frankel, the obvious phoniness of the desert set which the cute little vehicles trumble along only makes the whole thing even funnier.

This is a fairly frenetic farce which stars the marvellous Peter Ustinov.In this film each of the countries fighting in the desert occupies the hotel in turn and brings with it their own nationalistic quirks.There are some funny moments but unfortunately at 96 minutes it is just to long.Certainly by the time the French take over you are just wishing for it to come to a quick conclusion.The cast is first rate and does the best they can with the somewhat limited material.Ustinov is funny as the hotel proprietor.It was truly the world,s loss when he died .He was a uniquely gifted personality and there are not a lot of those around.