Loading ...“The journey” by Ligy Pullappally with Shruiti Menon, Suhasini Hair, Valsala Menon and Syam Seethal
Films with lesbian characters in the british asian community are rare enough (Nina’s Heavenly Delights [2006] is the only one that easily comes to mind) but films with lesbian characters in an indian village are even rarer!
Visually, the film seems to be set in the 70s. As no formal identification of the year the story takes place in is given, I will assume this is deliberate and the story is indeed set in the 70s. It doesn’t matter much, it’s only a visual cinematographic style. The story, though quite obvious from the start, is charming and well done if atmosphere, small every day gestures and a slower pace is your thing. Personally, I could have done with a bit more action, but nonetheless, the film is enchanting. |
So what do I know about Indian cinema? Well, not a lot, except that it’s all about Bollywood and people singing. So I was a bit worried it would turn out this way but the director has managed to put in the right amount of Indian music and dancing without turning it into a musical. There is no singing and the dancing and music are limited to short atmospheric scenes. As a side note, I like musicals but I need to be in the right mood for them…
This film is a study of society in small indian villages and touches upon many cultural traditions, including (arranged) marriages. It questions many things through characters of different generations, leaving the viewers to draw their own conclusions.
Both the most touching and the most disappointing thing about this film is the ending. The last few scenes are left open as to their outcome, so we haven’t resolved the “will they/won’t they?” question.
Despite its flaws, this is a good film, though perhaps more appropriate for fans of independent cinema. Well worth a look.
Links:
The Journey, Women on the other side
Second chances, Girlunfettered
Tags: lesbian/bi women