Blinded by the Light: Film Review

In a diverse film about the complexities of culture, intertwined with a love of music, Gurinder Chadha has left me completely uplifted following her latest film, Blinded by the Light.

Gurinder Chadha (Bend it like Beckham, Angus Thongs and Perfect Snogging) based her film on a true story, following the life of a young boy, Javed (Viveik Kalra) struggling to fit in and conform to his Pakistani family expectations. As a poet discovering Bruce Springsteen for the first time, he ventures on a journey of self-expression and escapism through the written word.

I went to see the first showing of this film on Friday night - my dad's Birthday was the premiere day! I was amazed at how much I enjoyed this film. Even only being familiar with two Bruce Springsteen songs, being a fan of his music is non-essential to enjoy this film. Obviously if you are, it's even better, but the soundtrack and story are moving regardless.

Set in the 80s, Chadha produced beautiful visuals complementing 80s society, with hard hitting contrasts of societal clashes with race and culture diversity. In some painful scenes, we are brought into a world where sadly, not everyone is accepted. However, with whimsical visual effects, a comedy cast and low-key romance, this film is an ultimate feel good.

Actor Viveik Kalra, who plays Javed Khan, brought so much charm to the British-Pakistani character cast; a Springsteen wannabe with the biggest beaming smile. I was pleased that the classic romance storyline did not take over the film, which it does in a lot of cases. Chadha kept it focused on the true grit of the characters and their family chemistry, sharing a powerful story of a struggling teen in the deprived town of Luton.

The family dynamic was harsh but accurate, giving an insight into the pressures of a working class Pakistani family earning low wages and struggling to support each other in a time of need. The pressure builds for Javed, who wants to break free from his family's religious ideals and live his life through Springsteen's lyrics.

I would highly recommend this film for its brilliant double-denim cast with their Flock of Seagulls haircuts and brick-like mobiles, alongside a great nostalgic soundtrack and heart-warming coming of age story.

An inspiring film that makes you feel ready to take on the world, in awe of the power of music and individuality. If not for that, then at least for Rob Brydon's cameo as one of Springsteen's biggest fans!