After seeing "Tropic Thunder" (2008), it has become clear that Hollywood actors, directors, and writers need to do background research on the characters they are portraying.
Just the film's title alone makes the audience aware that we should 'Americanize' people, and make them 'generic Americans'. And, in doing so, we should bury or hide their culture. Right? Wrong. Americans need to become 'culture sensitive', so they convey a positive message that someone else's culture is on an equal level with Americans. I'm okay. You're okay.
A number of Indian people attended a film festival in Connecticut. Those that had become 'Americanized' were not offended by the film. But, some felt that their Indian culture was portrayed in a negative light, and should have been given the dignity and respect of being on an equal level with the American culture. A significant number of Americans act like other cultures are inferior. This is wrong, and not at all true. 'Shelley' is given an American name, and is taught how to act, feel, and think like Hollywood-stereotypical Americans.
The Indian culture needs to be researched, and the script needs to be further developed. But, even with all of its flaws, the film is worthy enough to be seen. Truly, there are some very enjoyable, very funny, and very poignant moments. For a fair attempt, I rate this film a 6 out of 10. With some polish, and more work, the film would rank at least an 8 or 9.
