"Bad Times at the El Royale" underperformed at the box office due to several factors. Despite an intriguing premise and a strong ensemble cast, it faced stiff competition from other films released around the same time. The film's marketing may not have effectively conveyed its unique blend of thriller and mystery, leading to mixed reviews that deterred audiences. Additionally, its runtime and complex narrative structure may have limited its appeal to a wider audience, contributing to its lack of commercial success.

"Bad Times at the El Royale" is worth watching for its unique blend of mystery, stylish cinematography, and an intriguing narrative. Set in a rundown hotel in the 1960s, the film features a stellar ensemble cast, including Chris Hemsworth and Dakota Johnson, each playing complex characters with hidden agendas. The plot unfolds through a series of twists and turns, keeping viewers engaged. With its retro aesthetic and strong performances, the film offers a captivating experience for fans of suspenseful dramas.

"Bad Times at the El Royale" revolves around a group of strangers who check into a rundown hotel in the 1960s, each harboring secrets and hidden agendas. The film explores themes of redemption, identity, and the consequences of one's past actions. As their stories intertwine, the characters face moral dilemmas and confront their true selves. The El Royale serves as a metaphor for the duality of human nature, showcasing how appearances can be deceiving and the complexity of personal choices. Ultimately, it emphasizes the search for truth and connection.

"Bad Times at the El Royale" is not based on a true story; it is an original screenplay written and directed by Drew Goddard. The film is a fictional narrative set in a rundown hotel in the late 1960s, where seven strangers with hidden secrets converge. While it incorporates elements of mystery and suspense, the characters and events are entirely created for the film, rather than drawn from real-life incidents. The movie explores themes of identity, redemption, and the complexities of human nature.