Review of The Namesake (2006) by Aksel E — 10 May 2008

This is another one of Mira Nair's treasures. It was adapted from Jhumpa Lahiri's sophomore novel. This is the type of movie that I'm getting into lately because it's profound without the need to be unpleasant, like a lot of the powerhouse dramas (depressing, disturbing or both) I embraced in the past.

I felt like the movie left a positive message after seeing it. As an immigrant, this was particularly touching. It touches on identity, culture, loss, gain, eroticism, and love. Most touching for me was the relationship between the Gogol (named after Nikolai Gogol -- basis for the title).

I also thought that the parents were incredible, particularly the mother, played by Indian actress Tabu who was illuminating with her beauty and expressiveness. I appreciated the scenery in the film, changing back and forth to the streets and landmarks of Calcutta, to its stylish portrayal of New York (the Queensboro bridge, the N train's turn in Long Island City, the streets of SoHo), suburbia, the lakehouse.

Very dynamic setting. The music was also great ranging from Pearl Jam to classical Indian numbers. Prescient film.