East Is East MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 1/2 Content: -3

Set in 1970s England, EAST IS EAST details the life of an interracial, mixed religion family. George (Om Puri), a native of Pakistan, immigrated to the UK many years earlier and married an English woman, Ella (Linda Bassett). Together, they have seven children. George places much value in keeping the traditions of his homeland and his Muslim religion. He tries to impart as much of that heritage as he can to his family. However, since they live in England, the children primarily develop English values, which leads to great conflict between father and family. Their struggles lead to an outrageous and humorous game as the children try to embrace the English life while avoiding their fathers restrictions. Billed as a comedy, the film has a definite serious side, with several emotional and heart-wrenching scenes. However, the comedic aspect makes the movie an enjoyable but eye opening experience for audiences.

Conflicts plague Georges family on several levels, ranging through religion to societal traditions to age to gender. Most reflective of the conflicts, Georges wife often frustrates him, particularly when she feels it necessary to disagree with him. But he thinks she should be supportive of him and his direction for the family, no matter what. George also feels responsible for making many decisions for his children, often without giving them options. However, they feel they are older and able to make their own choices. Georges often dogmatic views even cause one of his sons to leave the family and live on his own. Religion is important to George and he wants his kids raised as Muslims. But Ella insures that they are involved in the Catholic Church as well. The film doesnt seem to favor any of these various viewpoints over another, but keeps them all equal which heightens the tension within the family. One scene includes graphic motions and sounds but no nudity as George and Ella have sex. The film also makes heavy use of foul language with 26 f-words and 38 moderate crudities. Objectionable language, along with graphic sexual content, take EAST IS EAST away from acceptable viewing.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Miramax Films, 375 Greenwich, NY, NY 10013