Searching 4 Sandeep 2007
Distributed by Women Make Movies, 462 Broadway, New York, NY 10013; 212-925-0606
Produced by Poppy Stockell
Directed by Poppy Stockell
DVD, color, 55 min.
Sr. High - Adult
South Asian Studies, Social Sciences, Sociology, Gender Studies, Women's Studies, Sexuality
Date Entered: 02/25/2010
Reviewed by Triveni Kuchi, Rutgers University LibrariesSearching 4 Sandeep is presented as an ordinary love story, narrated in a real and matter of fact manner, extraordinarily capturing the very essence of love and the impact of decisions made about relationships.
Poppy, who lives in Australia, meets Sandeep through an Internet dating service and they hit it off online. Poppy is a lesbian who has been out for a while, comfortable with her decision and has the support of her family in her choice and decision. Sandeep, on the other hand, comes from a large, conservative Indian family. Although Sandeep and family live in England, they have followed ways typical of many immigrant families—continuing to keep their faith and culture on the one hand, while trying to assimilate with their foreign environment on the other.
Poppy and Sandeep decide to meet and thus begins their tumultuous journey in love. Sandeep's patriarchal family decries the relationship with strong words trying to salvage their prestige in the Indian community. With one step Sandeep becomes an outsider to her family of over 30 years and Poppy, despite being out for so long, has to also relive her experiences. The film deftly captures the depth of emotions and pain Poppy, Sandeep and her family experience as they travel past the relationship decision. This film is a great introduction to classes on women, gender and sexuality, presenting opportunities for deep discussions about issues surrounding love and the effects of making difficult but honest decisions for oneself.
Awards
- 2007 Sydney Film Festival’s World Movies Channel Audience Award
- The World of Women in Film Festival’s Best Documentary and Audience Award