Bend It Like Beckham

( 44 )

Overview

An independent-minded young woman discovers the joys of football, much to her family's chagrin, in this upbeat British comedy drama. Jess Bhamra Parminder Nagra is an 18-year-old growing up in West London, where her family has taken every effort to stay in touch with its Indian heritage. Jess' father and mother Anupam Kher and Shaheen Khan are after their daughter to go to law school, learn to cook a traditional Indian dinner, and settle down with a nice Indian boy -- the latter of which is high on the agenda of ...
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Overview

An independent-minded young woman discovers the joys of football, much to her family's chagrin, in this upbeat British comedy drama. Jess Bhamra Parminder Nagra is an 18-year-old growing up in West London, where her family has taken every effort to stay in touch with its Indian heritage. Jess' father and mother Anupam Kher and Shaheen Khan are after their daughter to go to law school, learn to cook a traditional Indian dinner, and settle down with a nice Indian boy -- the latter of which is high on the agenda of her older sister Pinky Archie Panjabi, who is soon to wed her longtime beau Teetu Kulvinder Ghir. However, her family is unaware that Jess has a secret passion -- football or soccer, as it's known in North America. While Jess' enthusiasm for football star David Beckham is obvious, given the fact his photos cover the walls of her room, her parents don't know that in her spare time she likes to play a friendly game in the park with some of the boys in the neighborhood. One day, while Jess and her pals kick the ball around, she meets Jules Keira Knightley, who is quite impressed with Jess' skills. Jules plays with a local semi-pro women's football team, the Hounslow Harriers, and she thinks Jess has what it takes to make the team. Jess knows that her parents would never approve of their daughter playing football, so she doesn't tell them, and starts spinning an increasingly complex series of lies as she tries to keep up a double life as a student and a footballer. Jess soon discovers a number of her new friends have their own problems to overcome; Jules dreams of playing pro ball in America, but has to deal with her stubborn and disapproving mother Juliet Stevenson, while Joe Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Hounslow's Irish coach, still struggles with the disappointment of a career as a professional athlete which was dashed by a knee injury. Bend It Like Beckham was a significant box-office success in Great Britain and Europe, but didn't reach American theaters until nearly a year after it debuted in the U.K.
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Editorial Reviews

Barnes & Noble - Ed Hulse
Arguably this year's most charming comedy, Bend It Like Beckham is a flawlessly executed coming-of-age story structured around the cultural and intergenerational pressures faced by members of a girls' soccer team in England. The movie focuses on Jesminder "Jess" Bhamira played by radiant young Indian actress Parminder Nagra, whose immigrant Sikh parents disapprove of her obsession with soccer. They believe she should be honing her cooking skills and looking for a nice Indian boy to marry, but Jess rejects their entreaties and instead joins the Hounslow Harriers, developing a crush on her coach Jonathan Rhys-Meyers into the bargain. The narrative developed by director and co-writer Gurinder Chadha isn't startlingly original, but it is infectiously effervescent and unexpectedly moving. In this case, familiarity does not breed contempt, primarily because Chadha takes a commonsense approach to characterization and avoids clichés. Much of the credit for Beckham's success belongs to its cast. Nagra makes her character independent-minded but not contemptuous of the cultural traditions to which her parents adhere. Jesminder's friend and teammate, Juliette Pirates of the Caribbean's Keira Knightley, faces similar problems at home, especially from a doting mother Juliet Stevenson who can't understand why her tomboy daughter wouldn't rather wear a Wonderbra and adopt more girlish ways. The gentle tweaking of conventional values bespeaks affection and respect and places this eminently enjoyable movie far above its coarser Hollywood contemporaries.
All Movie Guide - Michael Hastings
Serving up Britcom clichés and genuine good heart in equal measure, Gurinder Chadha's culture-clash comedy is destined to win over all but the most cynical of audiences. Bend It Like Beckham doesn't offer any insights into Anglo-Indian issues -- racial, sexual, political, or otherwise -- that haven't already been better-covered by such filmmakers as Hanif Kureishi or Mira Nair. But it does seamlessly integrate its lighter-than-air girl-power agenda into the larger template of a screwball domestic comedy, complete with petty duplicities, a love triangle, and a climactic family wedding. Pushed along with snappy editing and a well-chosen pop soundtrack, the film buzzes by at a pleasant pace, and although the characters hem closely to their pre-ordained types (the sensible mother, the stubborn father, the impudent older sister), each is given enough screen time to make a sufficient emotional impact. None of this would work, however, without leads Parminder K. Nagra and Keira Knightley, whose easygoing rapport and apple-cheeked earnestness are a perfect fit with the movie's tone. For her part, director Chadha doesn't conjure up much visual poetry, but she does have a keen sense for the comically absurd: a throwaway shot of a gaggle of traditionally dressed Indian matriarchs digging for their cell phones -- in tandem -- is one of Beckham's best moments.
Entertainment Weekly - Owen Gleiberman
The most exhilarating movie so far this year. It's made up of many familiar elements -- think Monsoon Wedding meets My Beautiful Laundrette meets Personal Best -- yet before long, you catch on to how buoyant and funny and original it is.
Washington Post - Desson Howe
There's a great sense of fun in the cultural collision between Indian and British lifestyles -- often within the same person.
Los Angeles Times - Kenneth Turan
Smart, lively and altogether warmhearted dramatic comedy.

The most exhilarating movie so far this year. It's made up of many familiar elements -- think Monsoon Wedding meets My Beautiful Laundrette meets Personal Best -- yet before long, you catch on to how buoyant and funny and original it is.
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Product Details

  • Release Date: 9/30/2003
  • UPC: 024543084174
  • Original Release: 2002
  • Rating:

  • Source: 20TH CENTURY FOX
  • Format: VHS

Cast & Crew

Performance Credits
Parminder Nagra Jesminder "Jess" Bhamra
Keira Knightley Juliette "Jules" Paxton
Jonathan Rhys Meyers Joe
Shaheen Khan Mrs. Bhamra
Anupam Kher Mr. Bhamra
Ameet Chana Tony
Juliet Stevenson Paula
Imran Ali Gary
Saraj Chaudhry Sonny
Trey Farley Taz
Kulvinder Ghir Teetu
Frank Harper Alan
Preeya Kalidas Monica
Shaznay Lewis Mel
Archie Panjabi Pinky
Pooja Shah Meena
Paven Virk Bubbly
Technical Credits
Gurinder Chadha Director, Producer, Screenwriter
Paul Mayeda Berges Screenwriter
Guljit Bindra Screenwriter
Simon Franks Executive Producer
Zygi Kamasa Executive Producer
Deepak Nayar Producer
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Customer Reviews

Average Rating 4.5
( 44 )
Rating Distribution

5 Star

(30)

4 Star

(9)

3 Star

(3)

2 Star

(0)

1 Star

(2)

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See All Sort by: Showing 1 – 20 of 44 Customer Reviews
  • Posted October 1, 2010

    more from this reviewer

    I Also Recommend:

    A Girls' Night In

    This is a cute and cheeky British film showcasing some of Keira Knightley's early acting. The film is light-hearted and fun surrounding the British obsession with soccer and the handsome and talented David Beckham. There are some cultural differences that are brought up in the film about the expectations of an orthodox Sikh lady growing up in modern-day London. This is definitely an empowering "girly" movie, a great pick for a girls' night in.

    1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    A fresh mix of modern life and culture

    I was completely blown away when I saw this film, and the acting is excellent. This is a modern classic portrait of a teen struggling against her Indian upbringing and her dreams of playing soccer just like her idol, David Beckham. This is a great movie with an outstanding breakout performance by Parminder Nagra. Keira Knightley is just as stunning as well.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    bend it like beckham

    great soccer movie. if you dont like sports movie, you wont like this one. their is some inappropriate language and some "stuff" that isnt really meant for young kids. otherwise, its a great movie.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Loved it!

    This is an amazing movie because its full of friendship and love. What really touched me was the blending of two completely different cultures by the art of soccer. I would definately recommend this movie to anybody!

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Keira Knightley Fan!

    I love this movie. I thought it was absolutly hilarious! Keira Knightley is awesome!

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Blahhh

    This Movie was one of the worst I have ever seen. This movie is a waste of time to rent

    0 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Intriguing Insights into Blended Cultures

    I rented this movie because it was recommended on the radio as a good family film and I was then blown away by the depth of new insights I gained into the British and Indian cultures. I loved the actors, the comedy and the love story, as well as the soccer scenes. I'm not a soccer fan, so it is a real credit to this film that I was so captivated by the sports stuff. Jess's moves were fascinating to watch, and I loved the way the director used comedy to hold your attention and lighten things up. I also enjoyed the director's commentary on the DVD. The director explains that the movie is very autobiographical and she gives even more insight into the blending of eastern and western cultures in suburban West London. After watching the movie, the music from the soundtrack kept haunting my memory, so I bought the CD and it is now one of my favorites. This movie really rocks!

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Great Movie!

    I'm from India myself, and this a great movie to watch! I give this one two thumbs up!

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    this movie rocked

    this movie bend it like beckman rocked. you should buy it. i am a fan now of this flim.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Joe is hot especially with that Irish accent!!

    This movie by far is my favorite movie, not just because Joe is hot, but because it is really a great movie that expresses culture. I watch it every weekend I even stared playing soccer because of it.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    A Kickin' Movie!

    Bend It Like Beckham is an exciting movie that tells a romantic love story, while also educating you about the game of soccer and the culture of India. This film held my interest and was very enjoyable to view. The characters are unforgettable, and their acting skills are amazing. The action scenes are phenominal, and the colors and graphics are really great. This movie shows how much hard work being an athlete is, and lets us view the tough moments in training before you step onto the field. Bend It Like Beckham is truly an oustanding movie that soccer fans of all kinds will love!

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    MUST SEE

    I myself am from a Sikh family and can relate to Jess, this movie was so funny and really captures the Punjabi culture. I really enjoyed all the characters and thought everyone should see this movie.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    A must-see... one of my all time favorites!

    This is a great movie for anyone who has ever been torn between doing what their parents want and following their heart. Although the story is about an Indian family living in England, it is one that everyone can relate to. The best part about it... HAPPY ENDING! (Sigh...!)

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Excellent! Bend It is a WINNER!

    A terrific comedy and wonderful story. I could not stop laughing. It's a must see for all.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Sami

    Usually my friends and I rent british movies and try to adopt an English accent, inbetween the fits giggles and the 'Girl stuff' we managed to 'oh baby' the coach and want to pick up our soccer balls and play a game. For girls who are often misjudged because they are athletes, it does send a great message with a lot of cute guys and no shirts. A real must see for all teenagers.

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  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    JOE ROCKS!

    me and my friends saw this movie like 10 times already! we all think joes is so hot! i like the twist of the movie that jess's parents disapprove of football, but this movie rocks on forever! you have to see this movie! GO JESS AND JULES!

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  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    The Best Movie Ever

    I saw this movie with my two best friends and we loved it. We get together and watch the DVD every weekend. Even if you don't like soccer you'll love this movie.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    It's a GOOOOAAAALLLLL!!

    Cool Movie! Must Watch!

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  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    GOOOAAAAALLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    This movie is awesome! If you liked My Big Fat Greek Wedding ;), then you'll love this. There are great actors in this movie: Kiera Knightley, Anupam Kher, Parmindar Nagra, and you can't forget the total blue-eyed GOD........... the one and only Jonathan Rhys-Myers. This movie'll have you rolling on the floor with laughter. Gotta watch it!!!!!;) It scored big with everyone I told to watch it and my family. Think about it ........ if everybody else liked it, then you will too. SO, WATCH THE MOVIE LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE DID, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!!!!!!!!

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
  • Anonymous

    Posted October 1, 2010

    Superb ...

    A must-see film.

    Was this review helpful? Yes  No   Report this review
See All Sort by: Showing 1 – 20 of 44 Customer Reviews