American Desi

First I came across Green Card Fever, then I thought to check out another title with Purva Bedi (Nina) and was not disappointed of American Desi. The movie has a very simple storyline and simple acting, but it brings honesty to the film. Although there are much better adaptations on immigrant life (East is East, Bend It Like Beckham), it made me easy to imagine how it is for someone who originates in a different culture and has to find his/her way of doing things, especially when second generation immigrant. I haven't seen any Indian movies, but I think the dancing/music parts, the costumes, and the tale like love story are a touch of Bollywood. The whole 1.5 hours is full of fun and smile, but funniest to me were the roommates of Krishna, who's character were shaped excellent. So, all in all, if you keep on watching after the first 20 minutes, this is a nice light DVD for a Sunday afternoon, gets 6/10. There's just one question left: what is 'Desi'?

Well, I read a review of this movie, and it didn't sound too promising. However, it had been relentlessly plugged by one of my best friends (who happens to be Indian) and she practically forced me to watch it. I'm really glad she did. This was a hilarious portrayal of a Indian-American guy trying to come to terms with his heritage, all while his hormones were raging. I admit, if I had watched it by myself, I probably wouldn't have been all that impressed. But with my friend there to explain all the cultural and religious references and jokes, it was a truly unique, educational and wholly funny experience.

After having seen films like Bend It Like Beckham, Bollywood/Hollywood, American Desi seemed like familiar territory but nevertheless a very one. For those who think the film is cliched, they didn't get it. Because it is meant to give those cliches a humorous look. The humor in the film is very well done. Instead of having an offensive or critical view of anything in particular, the film takes more of a funny spin on things. There are oddities and stereotypes in every culture; the film tries to give the american and desi cultures a bit of a homage, with a chuckle of course. 8/10.

I honestly believe the intentions of this movie were honorable and it sought to appeal to those of us who are 2nd generation Indians here in the US...

I was excited to see how we'd be portrayed, whether our complexities would be outlined, the duality of our upbringing explored and highlighted, etc...

Unfortunately the plot centers around silly stereotypical caricatures instead of 3-dimensional characters. Any potential for serious, compelling drama is overshadowed by ridiculous American Pie-esquire humor mixed with culture-clash comic situations. Moreover, it wouldn't hurt to do a bit more research with the subject matter to present a realistic portrayal of Muslim cultural practices. (I've never known ANY of my Muslim friends to interrupt their prayers/namaaz for a conversation.)

Nice try though guys... You probably got a few laughs. We can't all be Mira Nair though can we?

First half had me laughing out of my seat. Being a Canadian-born confused desi I could relate to all of the humour. The second half of the film was a bit of a letdown as the writer tried to resolve the issues in a quick fashion. I would liken this movie to "Soul Man" where there was great potential but only a "good" movie as a result. Thoroughly enjoyable but could have been a classic!