The Namesake was entertaining, and really covers a lot of themes. It may be trying to cover too many, since at times things are a bit rushed or feel unresolved; the family acceptance in the neighborhood is the one example. But generally the movie is pleasant, and deals with some of these big themes in a very direct way for the most part. I was impressed in some ways that Gogol's American girlfriend is eventually rejected, since she was too intent on showing his parents "how it's done here", yet their break up is handled awkwardly, as is his relationship with the woman he marries. I was a bit offended by the typical, clichéd trick of having the affair be with a French person, Apparently some clichés are OK? That aspect was childish and disappointing for a filmmaker from a mixed heritage who appears interested in avoiding stereotyping! Entertaining and enjoyable, the movie veers towards sentimentality quite a bit, but overall and despite a couple awkward moments and some stereotyping, I recommend the movie.
Review of The Namesake
