Review of A Passage to India (1984) by Luke R — 10 Aug 2007

David Lean's last film, an adaptation of E.M. Forster's classic novel, is a wonderful masterpiece almost on a par with "Lawrence of Arabia". The movie retains the themes of colonialism and latent racism between the British in India and their Indian subjects (though other topics, like the Muslim-Hindu conflict, are brushed over), while introducing an intriguing analysis of Adela Quested, the lead character who brings about all of the story's fuss, as a girl whose latent sexuality is awakened by India.

Though lacking in action or violence, the film has an amazing sense of class and flair; it oozes gravitas, with Lean's usual scenes of massive crowds, military pageantry, and John Box's meticulous set design.

A brilliant cast, with Judy Davis in the lead as the confused Adela, is remarkable. Peggy Ashcroft, James Fox, Victor Bannerjee, Nigel Havers, Art Malik, Saeed Jaffrey, Roshan Seth, Michael Culver, and Richard Wilson are all brilliant.

The one flaw is Alec Guinness as the Indian Godbole, but his part is relatively small so he can be overlooked. In spite of a contrived happy ending, this film is overall another masterpiece by Lean, and a fitting end to a long and brilliant career.