Hotel Sahara

Peter Ustinov and his fiancé Yvonne de Carlo run a hotel in the middle of the Sahara during WWII. When things get too close for comfort they have to react quickly to keep the warring countries, who keep visiting, content, if they are to stay alive and keep the hotel going.

Enjoyable enough farce with Ustinov and Co working tirelessly and frantically to convince the English, French, Italians and Germans that they're on their side as each visits in turn. Trouble is, this is supposed to be a farce but it just isn't frantic, silly or frankly quick enough to get any big laughs. It needed more confusion, mistaken identity, slamming doors and running around. It tries, but not enough.

There must have been hotels etc. Which actually experienced this type of problem with towns and villages changing hands more than once. Peter Ustinov was perfect for this part as were all the others cast. It did not look any any footage was shot outside of a studio as mentioned elsewhere as it all looked very much studio shot with a few lorry loads of sand spread around a bit. An amusing tale with plenty of odd characters to keep an audience entertained for the running time, it did not seem to be too long at any point. Well worth watching and no wonder the leading lady attracted the attention of soldiers of various nationalities.

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" (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.

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.