Bollywood on DVD

I've had some extra time in the past week to catch up on DVDs. My particular obsession of late is Bollywood. The over-the-top Indian musicals are nothing like any American films. They run for 2 and a half to 3 hours. The heroes and heroines swoon with emotion. Most of the films are a big mess: 4 big music numbers + 20 costume changes + 1 scolding mother + 2 comedic scenes that drop in the plot as complete non sequiturs + one big happy ending (that involves no onscreen kissing). What a glorious mess!

I am dying to see the Indian version of "Pride and Prejudice" that is coming out near Christmas, "Bride and Prejudice." It's not a strict Bollywood movie. It has western actors, it's in English and it's by the woman who made "Bend it Like Beckham," but the previews make it look like it contains that cacophony that makes Bollywood so delightful.

If you're looking to try a Bollywood movie, try Lagaan.