Film – My Name is Khan
March 13, 2010
5/5]
I’m a bit of a tough cookie when it comes to crying at emotional films. That all came to an end after watching My Name is Khan. It’s the heart-wrenching story of a Muslim man, Khan, diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, who falls for a single Hindu mum, Mandira. Whilst seeming a tad bit ridiculous at first to strong willed Mandira, he manages to win her over after taking her to see the gorgeous skyline of San Francisco. Along with Mandira’s son Sameer, a perfect existence is created and a happy family are formed.
Fast forwarding a little to a post-9/11 America and the perceptions towards Muslims have drastically changed; and the Khan family are no exception. After a school beating (predicated on his stepfather’s Muslim faith) results in Sameer’s death, Mandira leaves Khan. After asking what he must do to win her back, Mandira challenges Khan to meet the President of the United States of America, to tell him that his name is Khan and that he is not a terrorist. Taking it literally, Khan sets out on a captivating journey across America to meet the President. Along the way he overcomes many challenges, meets a mound of refreshingly encouraging people and sparks a host of racial debates as his inspiring journey gains media attention [Forrest Gump goes Bollywood -Ed].
The casting is brilliant and Shah Rukh Khan excels in portraying a witty yet challenged individual who wins over the hearts of America. Stunning backdrops and creative visuals inform us of another world that lies deep within America. The storyline was dynamic and brilliantly portrayed.
All in all, a spectacularly endearing cinematic experience. Just remember – his name is Khhhhan (from the epiglottis!)
