This review contains spoilers ! Helene is sad and distant because she has not recovered from the demise of her architect boyfriend. One night, she met Gilles, an aimless guy who is a part time tourist guide, living in his mother's hotel. Helene is attracted to Gilles but she cannot open up to him yet. The attraction is mutual. However, Gilles seems frustrated that Helene is not ready to fully commit to him. If only he were more patient, one can see that Helene is slowly opening up. She changed her hairstyle and there is more color to her face. She even took Gilles to her real house, not just her rented apartment. Despite their feelings for each other, Helene's personal baggage and Gilles lack of maturity threaten their relationship. Gilles friend, Benard, is no help. He is a loser who tries his best to make Gilles feel guilty. One wonders if Helene is attracted to Gilles partly because she is looking for someone who needs her. Gilles is like a boy who has not grown up emotionally and has not taken on the responsibilities of an adult. For example, Gilles younger sister has the full time job of helping their mom run their hotel. I think this film is about the complexities of human relationships and how lack of maturity and communication can lead to despair and depression.
Review of Hotel America
