This so rates 10 on my scale. Not only is it a terrific romantic comedy, but as someone of East-Indian descent, I am able to identify with so much of Shelly's dilemmas and the film's humor. No spoilers, but one of the best thing about the film is Shelly's turning 30 and the dilemma that ensues. I loved her mom in that scene and she definitely did as well as she did in "Bend it like Beckham". the turning 30 scenario had me in stitches and reminded me of the similar situation in "My big, fat Greek Wedding" but done with a very clever take. Although, the humor is so funny and the one liners keep coming, THE BEST thing about the film is the decision that Shelly makes in the end. It totally lends to the heart of the film and i actually welled up at that point. Not to give away too much but this is just a super, super cute movie...and it is so nice to see Indians succeeding in Hollywood.
10 Reviews
Terrible
djlennon27 May 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Without a doubt one of the worst films I have ever had to sit through. I saw it recently at a film festival in Connecticut and was quite simply stunned that the organisers sanctioned the screening. I cannot think of a single redeeming feature.
The Indian stereotypes portrayed are so crude and patronising it defies belief, astoundingly so considering that the writer (and lead actress) is of Indian descent herself. Beyond the customary silly accents, we are led to believe that Indian people are culturally and technologically backward. For example, when Shelley (post-makeover) is reunited with her family ahead of her arranged marriage, she explains to everyone's amazement what happened to her ugly-duckling-style glasses: "Americans have these amazing things called contact lenses!". Incredible. But make no mistake, there is much more to be upset about than racial stereotyping. Not content merely to offend anyone from an Indian background, the overall ineptness of the production ensures that pretty much anyone with a shred of intelligence should be equally disgusted: the jokes are predictable and unfunny, the plot a disconnected, contrived mess of clichés, the acting largely indifferent.
Given that the film was being screened at the close of an otherwise excellent festival, I had high expectations . Unfortunately, Americanizing Shelly is like a bad made-for-TV rom-com. Except that on TV you can always change the channel to a program with more class, humour and artistic merit, like Home Shopping.
The Indian stereotypes portrayed are so crude and patronising it defies belief, astoundingly so considering that the writer (and lead actress) is of Indian descent herself. Beyond the customary silly accents, we are led to believe that Indian people are culturally and technologically backward. For example, when Shelley (post-makeover) is reunited with her family ahead of her arranged marriage, she explains to everyone's amazement what happened to her ugly-duckling-style glasses: "Americans have these amazing things called contact lenses!". Incredible. But make no mistake, there is much more to be upset about than racial stereotyping. Not content merely to offend anyone from an Indian background, the overall ineptness of the production ensures that pretty much anyone with a shred of intelligence should be equally disgusted: the jokes are predictable and unfunny, the plot a disconnected, contrived mess of clichés, the acting largely indifferent.
Given that the film was being screened at the close of an otherwise excellent festival, I had high expectations . Unfortunately, Americanizing Shelly is like a bad made-for-TV rom-com. Except that on TV you can always change the channel to a program with more class, humour and artistic merit, like Home Shopping.
An awful film
thetrickman6 February 2008
This film has offended me on so many levels, it is amazing! The only thing mildly good about the film is that Gujral looks beautiful on screen, but that is hardly any saving grace when I found out that she was also the writer!
To start of, the filmmakers conveniently assume that the audience has no clue what so ever about India and her culture, ancient or contemporary. The filmmakers are able to trivialize every aspect of Indian culture they reference. In this global world with so much interaction between countries and cultures it is appalling to see such trivialization of Indian culture. It is hard to believe that Indians were associated with this film, this film is able to show Indians in a worser light than what Peter Sellers was able to do with his fake Indian accent.
The story, direction and acting in this film is awful. Its amazing that the film was even released. i hope Gujral does not ever write a script, at least nothing that even remotely deals with India. Just an awful film.
To start of, the filmmakers conveniently assume that the audience has no clue what so ever about India and her culture, ancient or contemporary. The filmmakers are able to trivialize every aspect of Indian culture they reference. In this global world with so much interaction between countries and cultures it is appalling to see such trivialization of Indian culture. It is hard to believe that Indians were associated with this film, this film is able to show Indians in a worser light than what Peter Sellers was able to do with his fake Indian accent.
The story, direction and acting in this film is awful. Its amazing that the film was even released. i hope Gujral does not ever write a script, at least nothing that even remotely deals with India. Just an awful film.
Awful
haddyjeng24 November 2013
This is the worst movie I've ever watched! I cannot point out anything good with it, the script, actors, storyline and everything was just bad! It shouldn't even be certified as a movie.
I didn't like the way that they portrayed the Indian culture, nor the American. It was just over dramatic and not funny. I know movies have an tendency to over do stuff, but this movie took things too far. The generalizations of Indians, white people, Mexicans and blacks were just not funny.
Everything that happened in the movie was also expected, I hate when you know the storyline from the beginning by just the title.
I didn't like the way that they portrayed the Indian culture, nor the American. It was just over dramatic and not funny. I know movies have an tendency to over do stuff, but this movie took things too far. The generalizations of Indians, white people, Mexicans and blacks were just not funny.
Everything that happened in the movie was also expected, I hate when you know the storyline from the beginning by just the title.
Needs work, and the film's script is not fully developed, but the film is worthy enough to be seen.
Len987614 August 2008
After seeing "Tropic Thunder" (2008), it has become clear that Hollywood actors, directors, and writers need to do background research on the characters they are portraying.
Just the film's title alone makes the audience aware that we should 'Americanize' people, and make them 'generic Americans'. And, in doing so, we should bury or hide their culture. Right? Wrong. Americans need to become 'culture sensitive', so they convey a positive message that someone else's culture is on an equal level with Americans. I'm okay. You're okay.
A number of Indian people attended a film festival in Connecticut. Those that had become 'Americanized' were not offended by the film. But, some felt that their Indian culture was portrayed in a negative light, and should have been given the dignity and respect of being on an equal level with the American culture. A significant number of Americans act like other cultures are inferior. This is wrong, and not at all true. 'Shelley' is given an American name, and is taught how to act, feel, and think like Hollywood-stereotypical Americans.
The Indian culture needs to be researched, and the script needs to be further developed. But, even with all of its flaws, the film is worthy enough to be seen. Truly, there are some very enjoyable, very funny, and very poignant moments. For a fair attempt, I rate this film a 6 out of 10. With some polish, and more work, the film would rank at least an 8 or 9.
Just the film's title alone makes the audience aware that we should 'Americanize' people, and make them 'generic Americans'. And, in doing so, we should bury or hide their culture. Right? Wrong. Americans need to become 'culture sensitive', so they convey a positive message that someone else's culture is on an equal level with Americans. I'm okay. You're okay.
A number of Indian people attended a film festival in Connecticut. Those that had become 'Americanized' were not offended by the film. But, some felt that their Indian culture was portrayed in a negative light, and should have been given the dignity and respect of being on an equal level with the American culture. A significant number of Americans act like other cultures are inferior. This is wrong, and not at all true. 'Shelley' is given an American name, and is taught how to act, feel, and think like Hollywood-stereotypical Americans.
The Indian culture needs to be researched, and the script needs to be further developed. But, even with all of its flaws, the film is worthy enough to be seen. Truly, there are some very enjoyable, very funny, and very poignant moments. For a fair attempt, I rate this film a 6 out of 10. With some polish, and more work, the film would rank at least an 8 or 9.
Pretty good if you're looking for something light and fun
dynexty8 February 2008
When we rented this film, we had no clue or expectation from this movie as I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out. But being a fan of Bollywood Lite, I thought I'd give it a shot, as I enjoyed The Guru and Bride and Prejudice. But the next couple of hours turned out to be such a fun experience. I'd say its a chick flick but my husband loved it too. The lead actress is not only a great looker but also a true performer. The African-American actor had us laughing so hard with his little quips. The lead guy's acting seemed a little staged but not enough to detract from the film. The supporting cast were all pretty good in their roles and we'd recommend this film to all fans of the romantic comedy or foreign-indie genre. All in all a very fun time.
If you are looking to be entertained and get your money's worth...
bill-olsson23 March 2007
then this is the film for you. I saw this at Sn Diego film fest and i have to admit i didn't know much about the Indian culture but was educated, entertained and enchanted (esp by the lead girl) in every way possible. I just found out that this film is opening in a few weeks and I am psyched. Just a great fun movie and well worth watching, this one definitely did it for me. It was a hit at SDFF and going to the fest website and reading some of the reviews will give you some more audience reactions (lookout for mine too - it's in there buried with the others). I feel lucky to be one of the first ones to have watched it. congratulations to a fine movie and a fine team (please put the poster up that the Indian dancers were handing out at the festival), thank you, Bill Olsson
An Excellent and Whimsical Film
EandM1 March 2008
We really enjoyed this film. In a world of so much seriousness and all the tragedy, this film comes across and lifts your spirits. We found it very innovative and imaginative. True it is comical but it is just a movie and no need to get all upset that someone's culture was stepped on. When an American is portrayed on the screen do we automatically assume this is all Americans? Of Course Not. We hope the author writes more movies so we can see each and everyone. We highly recommend this movie. This is coming from a mixed couple he being European and she being Indian.
Our 2 Cents
Our 2 Cents
Campy but Captivating
astoryofvictory2 January 2019
I created an account just to add a good review for this video which I'm sure I picked up from a discount bin a few years ago. It has been watched countless times in my home and that is RARE. Seems like low ratings from users are based on people being offended about depictions of culture. But fun is poked at ALL groups and cultures in this film. It's a lighthearted comedy with a timeless message of being true to yourself. It's entertaining and I could watch it with the kids. (2018)
One of the TOP TEN Makeover movies...
spideychick30 May 2008
Americanizing Shelly is one of the "Beast Makeover Movies" of our times. BTW, I am a huge fan of makeover films. I love watching "before and after" type stuff in movies, TV shows...just about anything. In fact, I am kinda addicted to that stuff and seek it out. I even love shows like The Swan and Dr. 90210. My friends and I love Kim Kardashian (and NEVER miss KUWTK) because of how beautiful she is (even if she has never really actually done anything in movies). But she looks like what most of us aspire to, but don't...which BTW, DOES NOT MEAN THAT WE ARE UNHAPPY AT ALL. We just appreciate beautiful looking people like some others appreciate beautiful art or beautiful scenery.
With that in mind, my friends and I have compiled a list of "10 BEST MAKEOVER MOVIES" of recent times (after 1995).
And here they are: (in random order) 1) CLUELESS 2) PRETTY WOMAN 3) THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 4) JOHN TUCKER MUST DIE 5) MAID IN MANHATTAN 6) MY BIG FAT Greek WEDDING 7) SHE'S ALL THAT 8) MISS CONGENIALITY 9) MEAN GIRLS 10) AMERICANIZING SHELLEY.
Although, personally...CLUELESS is #1 and all the others are #2.
I am also putting together a different list of "10 BEST MAKEOVER MOVIES" of all times (prior to 1995). Please do post me a message voting for your "10 BEST MAKEOVER MOVIES" prior to 1995. And yes, I SO TOTALLY recommend this film (if you haven't already watched it)...whether you like "makeover movies" or not.
With that in mind, my friends and I have compiled a list of "10 BEST MAKEOVER MOVIES" of recent times (after 1995).
And here they are: (in random order) 1) CLUELESS 2) PRETTY WOMAN 3) THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 4) JOHN TUCKER MUST DIE 5) MAID IN MANHATTAN 6) MY BIG FAT Greek WEDDING 7) SHE'S ALL THAT 8) MISS CONGENIALITY 9) MEAN GIRLS 10) AMERICANIZING SHELLEY.
Although, personally...CLUELESS is #1 and all the others are #2.
I am also putting together a different list of "10 BEST MAKEOVER MOVIES" of all times (prior to 1995). Please do post me a message voting for your "10 BEST MAKEOVER MOVIES" prior to 1995. And yes, I SO TOTALLY recommend this film (if you haven't already watched it)...whether you like "makeover movies" or not.
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