The Namesake

Synopsis

The Namesake, released in 2006, follows the journey of a young Indian-American man named Gogol Ganguli, played by Kal Penn, as he navigates between his traditional Bengali roots and embracing his American identity. Directed by Mira Nair and based on the novel by Jhumpa Lahiri, the film beautifully explores themes of cultural identity, family, and belonging. Through Gogol's personal struggles and self-discovery, viewers are taken on an emotional and thought-provoking journey that delves into the complexities of immigrant experiences, generational differences, and the eternal search for self-acceptance and understanding.

Cast

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  Kal Penn

  Gogol / Nikhil

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  Irrfan Khan

  Ashoke Ganguli

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  Tabu

  Ashima Ganguli

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  Jacinda Barrett

  Maxine Ratliffe

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  Zuleikha Robinson

  Moushumi Mazoomdar

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  Ruma Guha Thakurta

  Ashoke's Mother

Reviews

The Namesake has garnered positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a solid 85% rating, praising its heartfelt storytelling and authentic portrayal of cultural dilemmas. IMDb rates it 7.5/10, reflecting the film's impact on viewers. Metacritic's score of 82/100 reinforces the film's quality and emotional depth. Critics have lauded Kal Penn's performance, praising his ability to convey the intricate emotions of Gogol's character. The film's direction by Mira Nair has been commended for its sensitivity and attention to cultural details. Overall, The Namesake has been described as a poignant and insightful exploration of identity and family dynamics.