There is a feeling in this film that love and disconnect are connected through embarrassment. A Nice Indian Boy showcases bravery in the face of fear when trying to gain acceptance from family. Directed by Roshan Sethi, A Nice Indian Boy is an unexpected masterpiece that highlights cultural elements. It is an inspiring and fulfilling journey in pursuit of what a heart truly wants. The film is a one-of-a-kind love story that demonstrates resilience while dealing with boundaries. It features knockout performances from both Karan Soni and Jonathan Groff as the couple finding their roots to fulfill their happiness.

The film’s main character is Naveen Gavaskar (Soni), an introverted doctor that hides behind many closed doors. He comes from a traditional Indian family, has no social life, and is not very energized. He has a very loving mother, Mega Gavaskar (played by Zarna Garg). His father, Archit Gavaskar (played by Harish Patel) is quiet and passive aggressive. His sister, Arundhathi Gavaskar (played by Sunita Mani) is married and has her own issues. The film is ultimately about Naveen’s hope to find love in his family. His greatest dream is to have the perfect traditional wedding to the man of his dreams. 

The film’s journey flows freely and is filled with layers of meaning. The audience feels a sense of wonder for Naveen especially during his moments of loneliness when he contemplates changing his life. The lights begin to shine when he goes to the temple to pray.  When he gets on his knees, a gentleman prays next to him, Jay Kurundkar (Groff). This may be the man that Naveen longs for. Can he overcome his sensitivity and listen to what his heart wants?

When the hidden corners of love reach the surface, the characterizations and chemistry are dazzling. Jay has been adopted and raised by an Indian Family. The bond of shared traditions begins to create more revelations. The story reveals love in patterns. Their personalities and the stages of getting acquainted with each other and their extended families is where A Nice Indian Boy excels in surreal charm.

Groff, who I know well as detective Holden Ford from the Netflix series Mindhunter maintains a clever personality. His explosiveness, however, is in his facial expressions which make clear he is a talented actor. For his role as Jay, he was required to learn a limited number of lines from the song “Tujhe DehkaToh,” a musical piece from a Bollywood movie called Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Since Groff is an artist and has much theatrical background, he memorized and recited the entire song. His ability to portray love is vivid and displayed in such a positive light in A Nice Indian Boy. Exploring the shared cultures and traditions result in classical fun in a entertaining fashion. 

Another important aspect to A Nice Indian Boy comes from the shy and irritated side of Naveen. Soni’s performance dives into a look at respect for societal class issues as he deals with the importance of traditions. Thanks to Groff’s character, he is encouraged to break through these cultural barriers.  There are several mixed dynamics and challenges faced that teach connection and self-acceptance instead of focusing on what others may feel about the relationship. The film about the mystery of love waiting to be unraveled is resilient, mesmerizing, and funny. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for A Nice Indian Boy.