‘A ⁣nice Indian boy’ review: Bollywood dreams in a quirky​ romantic comedy

Unveiling​ unexpected love

The ⁤romantic‌ comedy “A Nice ‍Indian Boy” takes an unexpected ‍angle on love stories by incorporating a ​queer narrative into⁣ a ⁢genre ⁢that often ⁣deals with Indian social mores and cross-generational family politics. The narrative centers‌ around Naveen, played by Karan Soni, who would typically ‌be seen as an ideal match—good-looking, articulate, and a doctor. ‌However, the twist here is that⁤ Naveen is gay‌ and searching⁤ for his‍ suitor, who ⁢turns out to be Jay, a white man deeply immersed in ​Indian culture.

Traditional tropes with a twist

“A Nice⁢ Indian Boy” adheres⁣ closely to traditional romcom‌ templates while sprinkling in unique elements. From their serendipitous meeting in a Hindu temple to the quintessential second-act breakup and colorful wedding ​dance, the ​film is a comforting⁤ journey through classic romance territory. The film‌ leverages Bollywood’s grand gestures and cites the ‘90s ​classic “Dilwale Dulhania Le⁢ Jayenge” for its happy ending. This layering of predictable‍ yet comforting elements positions the⁣ film⁤ as both familiar and fresh, particularly for queer characters ‍of color—a rarity⁤ in this genre.

An endearing family dynamic

The film opens with the wedding of Naveen’s sister, Arundhathi, to ​an eligible Indian man, representing an aspirational goal for their traditional immigrant⁣ parents. Naveen, who remains closeted to his family about his personal life, feels a sense of⁤ inadequacy and wonders if he will ever find​ such societal approval.

However, as the story advances,‌ we see ⁣significant changes. Naveen, still single⁤ and deeply engrossed in ‍his profession, finds solace and⁤ a potential life partner in ‌Jay. Jay,​ a photographer with‍ a deep respect and practice‌ of Hindu‌ traditions,⁤ appears to be an ideal match whose​ cultural affinities align with what Naveen’s family would value, ‌making the budding relationship‌ a unique twist ‌in this cross-cultural​ narrative.

Crossing the meet-the-parents‌ stage

The film excels ​in exploring Naveen’s anxieties as he contemplates introducing Jay to his family. ‍The⁢ script shines in these moments, ⁤highlighting how Naveen’s preconceptions about his parents might ‍be unfounded. His parents, particularly ⁣his father, might not⁣ be as traditional as Naveen assumes, while⁤ Arundhathi’s life‌ isn’t the epitome of a⁤ conventional marriage.

“A Nice⁢ Indian Boy” offers a nuanced look at a⁣ middle-class Indian American‌ family‍ navigating cultural transitions⁣ between two ‍worlds. Zarna Garg’s portrayal ‌of a protective mother,⁤ waiting to be allowed into her son’s life, brings ⁣depth and emotion to‌ the storyline, making‍ it both gently funny and moving.

The ‌romance that ⁣almost makes it

While the ‌familial ‌exploration is compelling, the romantic aspect feels somewhat less satisfying. ‌Jay, played by Jonathan Groff, is depicted with unwavering grace, maturity, and niceness ⁢that makes him appear almost⁤ too perfect. The film⁢ gives us scant insight into Jay’s⁢ own life beyond his relationship ‍with Naveen, making some of‌ the romantic milestones feel a bit rushed. Their⁣ chemistry, though genuine,⁤ sometimes glosses over complex ⁣issues with simple cinematic solutions, such​ as a musical number‌ or a shared⁤ moment ​in the kitchen.

Yet, ‌this is the nature of mainstream‌ romantic⁣ comedies, and “A Nice ⁣Indian Boy” embraces these clichés with an endearing sincerity and humor. The film’s final ‍sequence, filled with energetic choreography ⁤and vivid colors, captures the joy⁣ and extravagance of Indian weddings, while also ​demonstrating Jay’s observation to⁢ Naveen, “I think we’re all embarrassed by the bigness of love.” Through these layers​ of sincerity and humor, the film ultimately wins our hearts.

A ‌refreshing addition to​ the genre

Director⁣ Roshan Sethi’s ⁣third feature is an ‍exuberant, if somewhat formulaic, exploration of love, family, and identity. ⁢The film’s ability to combine Bollywood-inspired grandeur⁣ with a heartwarming queer ​love story sets it apart in the romantic comedy ‍landscape.

By enriching the film with cultural references and heartfelt performances, ⁢ “A ⁢Nice Indian Boy” offers a ⁣refreshing and important perspective,⁢ broadening ⁤the scope of ‍queer representation in cinema.⁣ The film doesn’t just entertain but also opens a dialogue​ on cultural ⁤acceptance​ and the‍ universality of love, making it a memorable watch.

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