Reviews

If you didn't like this movie, it's only because you expected the same nonsense Hollywood has been pumping out for years.

India has its own unique style of popular entertainment, little appreciated or understood by much of the West. The most well known is the Bollywood musical. They're easy to roll your eyes at if you're used to seeing the subdued cinema of Hollywood - as I'm sure most Indians would do were they to see the hours of explosions & dribble that comes out of the US.

This movie delicately and playfully bridges the gap between the two genres, which is not an easy task. Starting with a Western classic storyline and draping it in the bright colors of India, it takes you on a ride around the world. Just think Jane Austin in the Punjab. It takes a tong-in-cheek approach to much of the theatrics, being well aware of how it looks to the uninitiated.

"B & P" doesn't attempt to show a foreign family simply conforming to the West's lifestyle, as so many other similar types do (like director Chadha's other well-known film, Bend It Like Beckham). It celebrates the diversity of the cultures, passes no judgment on any person or practice and allows a dignified India to be well portrayed. Much of this takes place along with music and laughter – what could be better?

The fact that I still remember this after ten years is a testament to its quality. Little gems like this always get lost in the confusion of TV board room decisions, I suppose. The plot was unique and interesting. In fact, I always thought of Key West (the island) a little more fondly after seeing this series. Quirky and charming, this short lived, thoughtful comedy had much to give to television and was robbed of its potential. Combining sunshine, humor and free thinking as always something worth watching. Ah well, quality television is now all but completely restricted to channels that you must pay for. Obviously, interesting adventures such as this could never survive on broadcast television.