This is a small thoughtful movie about an Indian American man, Ashok, coming back to India in search of a bride. The young man is self effacing, polite and sensitive. He is torn between respect for traditions and love of freedom. While in India, Ashok stays with the family of his cousin sister. Parents of prospective brides find his occupation, that of an advertising copy writer, somewhat unimpressive and finding a bride is not easy. Finally he settles for an independent minded girl who is running her own business although her family is financially not as well off as his family would have wished. The parents of Ashok duly arrive. Meanwhile he runs into an young white American woman travelling through India. He finds in her unconditional friendship a welcome contrast from the negotiated relationships in India. Much to his parent's dismay, Ashok breaks off his engagement. As the credits roll, we see Ashok travelling by Train to join his American friend in Shimla.
The film has captured the nuances of Indian life and culture very well. The characters are realistic and credible. The movie is set in Chandigarh and the city is portrayed in a down to earth unadorned manner.
Acting is generally good. Shabana Azmi is very convincing as the match maker cousin sister of Ashok. Even minor characters are very well etched out and stay in the viewers mind.
All in all, this is a thought-provking movie about the conflict between tradition and modernity.
Review of A Decent Arrangement
