The Namesake - A film for "Generation Gogol" and the original Trailblazers
Take a look at how director Mira Nair brings the words of Pulitzer Prize winning author – Jhumpa Lahiri’s first novel to life.
The essence of Mira Nair’s works lay in her ability to take a subject, keep the texture soft, and give it deep undertones. In other words what on the surface appears to be a light-hearted affair really has a heavy dose of emotions wrangled with in.
The story is not as much of a love story as it is a story about life’s journey and the strength of relationships. Where Indo-American films may lack freshness with their cliché themes, The Namesake is certainly not a cliché make. Yes, arranged marriage, inter-racial dating, the struggles of adjusting between two cultures, and making a life in a foreign country from scratch, are all touched upon. But its presentation is so far removed from the other dilatory makes. What sets The Namesake apart is how easy it is to connect with. Side by side, the emotions of the trail-blazing NRI’s who came to the unknown lands of the U.S leaving their home, family, and love ones behind to build a future and create a legacy is told with the impact it has on youth, “Generation Gogol”, raised in the states. And while the incidents make you laugh, there are portions that will send you soul-searching.
The casting is clearly on point. Tabu is one of India’s finest, Irfaan Khan has proven capabilities, and Kal Penn is the perfect fit! Tabu delivers a stunning performance. While she’s played similar roles in Indian cinema before, she takes the level of intensity a notch up. Irfaan Khan plays a subdued character, with full competence. In a very natural manner he has the character perhaps easiest for NRI’s to relate to. Kal Penn commonly perceived as the class clown showcases he’s not a stand-up comic but a versatile actor. Most likely having lived the character of Gogol in real life, he fully grasps the sensibilities. Sahira Nair takes notice in her small contribution with a distinct appearance. Zuleikha Robinson is eye-catching. Jacinda Barrett is likeable.
The Namesake is a story penned by Jhumpa with its every mood captured by Mira.
The magic of reading a book vs. watching a movie is in the power of your own imagination. Nair transcends expectations by showcasing authenticity where your personal imagination may be limited. From West Bengal and Calcutta to New York viewers are truly able to experience the ‘two worlds’. A skilled production and technical crew project the film with finesse. The musical score by Nitin Sawhney adds to the emotional and traditional elements.
Audiences of South Asian descent or familiarity with the culture will be sure to connect. As for mainstream appeal, emotions are what connect humans and thus will connect audiences. The Namesake is a must watch with Ritu's 4 stars.
Viewers are bound to be pleasantly surprised at how the creative dynamics between these two intelligent women have produced a superior product in Indo-American genre. With that said, more power to film-makers as Deepa Mehta, Gurinder Chaada, and Mira Nair, who know how to bridge the gap, cross-over, and get it right!