Like many men dragged to a rom-com, especially on anniversary night, my expectations for “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” were low. However, from the opening scenes to the credits, I found myself genuinely entertained and surprisingly engaged. As a Pakistani man who experienced an “assisted” marriage, the film resonated deeply, capturing cultural nuances with an authenticity rarely seen in mainstream cinema.
One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its nuanced portrayal of Pakistani culture. Finally, we see Pakistani characters depicted beyond tired stereotypes. “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” and films like “The Big Sick” are paving the way for realistic and relatable representation. It’s incredibly refreshing to witness a Pakistani lead character with depth and personality, moving away from the outdated tropes of villains or mere supporting roles to white protagonists.
“What’s Love Got to Do With It?” is more than just a feel-good movie; it sparks important conversations about love and marriage. The film deftly explores these themes not only within an Eastern, specifically Pakistani, context but also through a Western lens, embodied by Lily James’ character’s journey. This dual perspective offers a rich and thought-provoking exploration of relationship dynamics in the modern world.
The chemistry between the leads, Shahzad Latif and Lily James, is undeniable and captivating. Adding to the film’s charm is the brilliant Emma Thompson, who infuses the narrative with her signature heartwarming humor. Her presence elevates the film, providing both comedic relief and emotional depth.
It’s disheartening to see some Pakistani reviews criticizing “What’s Love Got to Do With It?”, accusing it of misrepresenting Pakistani culture due to depictions of drinking. This criticism feels misplaced and overly sensitive. The film’s portrayal is, if anything, tame compared to the realities of life for many Pakistanis, both in Pakistan and abroad. It’s time to move past the need for a perpetually “squeaky clean” image and embrace the complexities of our humanity. “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” succeeds in showing just that – a realistic and human portrayal of Pakistani individuals navigating love and relationships, just like everyone else.
