As Gurinder Chadha's first feature film, it was something special when it was released, and it still holds up today. I have fond memories of going to the local Indian video shop with my dad and renting it. Back then, seeing British Asian stories on screen was still a rarity, which made films like this feel even more important.
What stands out is how many difficult subjects it tackles. Smoking, drinking, dating and family expectations were all sensitive topics for many British Asian families in the 1990s. The film also explores interracial relationships and domestic violence, subjects that can still be uncomfortable conversations in some communities today.
Despite dealing with serious issues, the film never feels heavy-handed. There's plenty of humour, warmth and heart throughout. The characters feel real, flawed and relatable, which is probably why the film has remained so memorable over the years.
As with all of Gurinder Chadha's films, the cinematography is excellent for its time. The soundtrack is great, the cast is superb and everything comes together to create something that still feels fresh more than 30 years later.
It's also always a pleasure to see Zohra Sehgal on screen. She steals every scene she's in, and her Punjabi swearing remains absolutely iconic.
For me, this is one of the most important British Asian films ever made. It made people laugh, started conversations and showed stories that weren't often seen on screen at the time.
Unlike my local video shop, this film hasn't disappeared with age and I still own the VHS and DVD.
5/5
