“Bend It Like Beckham” (Fox Searchlight)
Just as “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” came out of nowhere to be a major hit at the box office, so does “Bend It Like Beckham” appear with little advance notice. This sweetly, gentle film is similar to “MBFGW” in that it concerns a wedding and it is an ethnic film. Another similarity is that you really should see it!
“Bend It Like Beckham” takes its title from the fact soccer great David Beckham can kick a soccer ball in such a way that it “bends” and curves into the net. Jess (Parminder Nagra), an Indian girl living in London, wants to be able to “bend it like Beckham” and earn a spot on girls’ soccer team.
Her new best friend, Jules (Keira Knightley), believes that Jess can be a star. The two of them form a solid team as they run plays for Coach Joe (Jonathan Rhys-Meyer). Of course all of this is done without Jess’ parents knowing anything about it. They do not believe that a proper Indian girl should spend her time playing soccer, or any other sport.
Jess’ parents want her to be more like her sister Pinky (Archie Panabi) who is preparing for her marriage to a proper Indian boy. But Jess’ heart is set on being a soccer player. Plus she has developed a crush on Joe.
It all comes down to a simple love story between Jess and Joe, and a familial love for her family and their traditions. The contrast of the British culture and the Indian culture make for some entertaining moments in the movie.
Nagra is a standout as Jess and has a very bright career ahead of her, especially since she has been announced as a new cast member on “ER” next season. Knightley is a fresh-faced beauty and makes an impression as Jules. Juliet Stevenson steals the film as Jules mother who wants to be understanding about everything involving her daughter. When she misinterprets Jules and Jess’ friendship for love, the movie gets funnier and funnier.
The film is rated PG-13 for profanity.
Although this is a cast of unknowns, and the storyline seems a little ordinary; please take a chance and go to see this film. You will find it worth your time, money and effort.
I scored “Bend It Like Beckham” a curved 7 out of 10.
