In an admittedly backwards sequence of events, I purchased Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake only after seeing the gorgeous trailer for the novel's adaptation. Reading it, I could only hope that the movie would do the story justice. To my immense relief, director Mira Nair has brought the novel to life superbly.
Too often parents are portrayed as peripheral, clueless characters; here they are given an engaging backstory. The patient caring that blooms between the two of them is one of the most believable portraits of love put on film, thanks to the outstanding performances of Irfan Khan and Tabu.
I loved every minute of this movie. In a scene where the Gangulis held hands and walked through a crowded Indian train station together, I was struck by what a completely believable family these actors had become during the movie's runtime.
"The Namesake" is a beautiful, sweeping film that should be acknowledged in awards season, but most importantly, should be seen by moviegoers right now.
Opens USA March 9, 2007. MPAA: Rated PG 13
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