Saw Flavors over the weekend. Another Indo-American movie produced and directed by NRIs and second generation Indians living in the United States. The movie revolves around a number of young people (many couples), their relationships and life of desis in the US in general. The director has cleverly managed to weave so many different characters and their stories into one at the end of the movie. The movie stars a number (maybe most?) first time actors. Also, starring are two Bollywood imports as parents of one of the characters in the film.
There are times during the film when the constant context switching between the various stories gave the movie a choppy feel to it. Some of the accents were a little exaggerated. In some cases, it appeared as though the story would have been better served had first generation Indians been cast in some of the roles as opposed to second generation.
The two Bollywood imports did a fine job and blended very well into the film. The characters of “Vivek” and “Sangita” came across as most genuine and were perfectly portrayed by the actors. Pretty much all the characters in the film are very believable and true to life. For a first time movie maker, the director and crew have done a fine job. Its definitely better in production and direction quality than a whole bunch of movies that have been released in the last couple of years by aspiring first time movie makers of Indian origin.
Overall, hats of to the crew. Very impressive for a first time director. An easy going movie, that will serve as a nice break from the standard bollywood masala.
Pakora Korner 