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Reviews
Salam Pakistan (2018)
Uplifting!
A fresh and exceptionally well-acted narrative that puts a family in the midst of a conflict with stereotypes as role-models, at their worst, and best.
The experience is like watching a documentary disguised as Bollywood/Lahore romance, with all the trappings, where the cast and director have conspired to signal there's something better afoot than the straightforward plot. The director has stated his artistic goal is to bring daylight to the oppressed conditions women endure in his home country, Pakistan, but also that of the hijras (transgender) community who are simultaneously normalized and victimized. The combination of straight-up message and compassion we witness in the cast, for each other, as well as the audience, succeeds in providing a much needed lift of hope in a longstanding history of despair and struggle.
Bicycle Bride (2010)
Romance Across the Cultural Divide
Bicycle Bride approaches a timely topic with charm and sensitivity. The wrenching tale of Beena is populated by true to life characters at odds with the archetypes they feel compelled to adhere to. No stone or sacred rite stays unturned as we romp, laugh, and sometimes cry with them. This film is truly a great contribution to the important, and growing, pantheon of trans-cultural films. Beena's Mother has blessed her with a strong spirit that makes a perfect mirror for her conflict over tradition and living in an open society with new rules and morals. Her Father stays passive and aloof to this conflict. The family desperately tries to arrange for Beena's marriage to Bubba, bringing him from India. Bubba has his own hilarious encounter with the open society that promises to fulfill his own dreams. The tale of Beena's choice to lead her own life is a true eye-opener for all viewers to revel in.