In a tender love story, a gay Indian doctor must navigate his family’s acceptance of an openly gay son-in-law, while finding common ground between cultural expectations and personal identity.
A quiet confidence defines Roshan Sethi‘s film about a tender love story between two men and their journey towards acceptance.
Unconventional Romance
Naveen, a gay Indian doctor, is expected to complete his family by marrying the perfect girl. However, his devoted but lonely heart belongs to Jay, an attractive photographer who turns out to be Naveen‘s perfect match. At first, their relationship seems illogical, but ‘Eric Randall’s screenplay reveals that Jay was adopted by Indian parents and has a soft spot for his Indian upbringing.’.
A Journey of Compromise
As ‘Jay prepares to take their relationship to the next level,’ Naveen‘s family struggles with the idea of accepting an openly gay son-in-law. The film takes them on a long, tortured journey towards compromise, tolerance, and acceptance, filled with speed bumps and potholes. Both Karan Soni and Jonathan Groff deliver natural, endearing, and relentlessly honest performances that meld together like coffee and cream.
Finding Common Ground
The film’s poignancy lies in the love shared between Naveen and Jay when they’re together, as well as the pain they feel when apart. ‘Sethi balances humor, heartbreak, and cultural nuance without pandering to clichés.’ The characters’ wit and humor are on full display, particularly in Naveen‘s family members who try to hold onto traditional values while adjusting to modern emotional demands.
A Film of Subtlety and Seriousness
A Nice Indian Boy is a film that defies expectations, offering both subtlety and seriousness. It’s a testament to the power of love and acceptance, reminding us that despite our differences, we all share commonalities. The film’s message is one of hope and inclusivity, making it a must-see for anyone looking for a story that will touch their heart.
In Indian culture, a 'nice' boy is often associated with traditional values and behavior.
He is expected to be respectful towards elders, obedient to parents, and loyal to family.
Boys are socialized from a young age to prioritize the needs of others over their own desires.
This emphasis on selflessness and duty is deeply ingrained in Indian society, influencing how boys navigate relationships, education, and career choices.
A Winning Combination
The film’s winning combination of talent, direction, and screenplay makes it a standout in recent releases. With its tender love story, humor, and poignancy, A Nice Indian Boy is a film that will leave you rooting for the characters and appreciating their journey towards acceptance.
- observer.com | ‘A Nice Indian Boy’ Trades Tropes for Truth
