Cast Akshay Kumar, Anushka Sharma, Rishi Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia, Hard Kaur
Director Nikhil Advani
Rating G
I'm not sure anyone really wanted me to enjoy Patiala House. The woman at the sales counter gave me a quizzical look: "Sir, you know this is a Hindi movie?" The usher said much the same thing. Even the three Hindi-speaking, Bollywood experts at e+ seemed sure I'd come back ranting and raving about how the film didn't meet my criteria. As someone who loves film and grew up with half his family working in Hollywood, I do have high expectations and, if anything, often feel let down by Hollywood. But, I loved Patiala House much to everyone's surprise. I'm Bollywood ignorant you see, but I'm trying to learn.
Set in the UK, Patiala House's central drama examines how the echoes of yesteryears' overt racism still rattle the delicate social structures of what is, we hope, a more tolerant age. The film's protagonist, Gattu, played with convincing detachment by Akshay Kumar, is a dedicated son who tells us in the film's opening sequence how he gave up a promising career in cricket to live the life prescribed by his Bauji. Right from the start I was in trouble, as I had little idea what a Bauji is, and even less idea about cricket. This is because I'm American, and there are quite a few libraries full of things we don't know. Lucky for me then, that Patiala House follows a legible, if slightly melodramatic story arc that's ultimately a celebration of family and the individual.
Because Gattu has relinquished his dreams, setting aside cricket rather than playing for the English team against his father's wishes, he sets a dangerous precedent for his many (around ten?) younger siblings who feel unable to pursue their own dreams. I found it difficult not to root for Gattu, as he retakes control of his life, love, and the cricket ball. With a capable ensemble cast, catchy songs and a climax that's compelling despite the nearly impenetrable premise of cricket, this is a delightful film.
