"Kissing Cousins" is a far from perfect film. In places, it's a bit rough and I would have liked to see these rough patches smoothed a bit. However, the overall package is very enjoyable and the film is well worth your time.
The story begins with Amir doing his job--breaking up with people. In other words, he is a professional who, for a fee, will do the dirty job of breaking up when one person in a relationship wants out! You soon see that in addition to this job, he's a very jaded single 30-something guy--and it looks as if there's little, if any, chance he'll have any sort of relationship in the future. This doesn't seem to bother him...at least on the surface. However, when he goes back to see his family at Thanksgiving, he meets his old cousin and she, slowly, he givens to fall for her. What happens next? Well, it does NOT go where you'd expect--and that's one of the best aspects of the film. In addition, it has a nice gentle sense of humor that is pleasing and makes this is nice date film. As for the rough patches, references to masturbation and some brief nudity might also drive away some viewers--and these easily could have been removed to make this a more family-friendly and date-friendly movie.
Finally, a few observations. First, Amir's friend, Charlie, might seem a bit familiar. This handsome guy played 'Scut Farkus' in "A Christmas Story"--you know, the ugly bully. He was quite good in the film. Second, the film was both written and directed by Amyn Kaderali--and that's pretty impressive. Third, while this might creep out some, cousins marrying is widely accepted...just not here in the US. I am pretty neutral about the subject myself (especially since genetic problems resulting are pretty much a myth) and it IS very common in India and many other cultures. Fourth, pay attention to the Japanese lady at the table during Thanksgiving--I really, really liked to see the translation for what she said. Enjoy.
