Is Checking Out: Grand Hotel Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Checking Out: Grand Hotel is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 12 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Checking Out: Grand Hotel Review
Last updated: January 9, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2004, Checking Out: Grand Hotel enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on Until 1932's Grand Hotel, never had there existed an all-star ensemble cast on film. Under the direction of Peter Fitzgerald, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Tom Kane, Sydney Guilaroff, J.J. Cohn. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, Checking Out: Grand Hotel offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, Checking Out: Grand Hotel is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 7/10, the reception has been generally positive. For fans of Documentary, Drama, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of Checking Out: Grand Hotel
- Tom Kane – Narrator (voice)
- Sydney Guilaroff – Self - Key MGM Hair Designer (archive footage)
- J.J. Cohn – Self - MGM Executive (archive footage) (as Joseph J. Cohn)
- Joan Crawford – Self / Flaemmchen (archive footage)
- Greta Garbo – Self / Various roles (archive footage)
Top Highlights
Tom KaneNarrator (voice)
Sydney GuilaroffSelf - Key MGM Hair Designer (archive footage)
J.J. CohnSelf - MGM Executive (archive footage) (as Joseph J. Cohn)
Joan CrawfordSelf / Flaemmchen (archive footage)
Greta GarboSelf / Various roles (archive footage)
John BarrymoreSelf / Various roles (archive footage)
Lionel BarrymoreSelf / Various roles (archive footage)
Wallace BeerySelf / Various roles (archive footage)
Lew AyresSelf (archive footage)
Paul BernSelf (archive footage)
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7/10, and global collection metrics, Checking Out: Grand Hotel stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2004 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Checking Out: Grand Hotel movie hit or flop?
Checking Out: Grand Hotel is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Documentary, Drama movies.
Is Checking Out: Grand Hotel worth watching?
Yes, Checking Out: Grand Hotel is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Documentary, Drama cinema.
What genre is Checking Out: Grand Hotel?
Checking Out: Grand Hotel is a Documentary, Drama movie that Until 1932's Grand Hotel, never had there existed an all-star ensemble cast on film. Conceived by MGM's production genius Irving Thalberg, the film bo...
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