Bend It Like Beckham

About Bend It Like Beckham

Bend It Like Beckham (released in 2002) is a British comedy-drama film directed by Gurinder Chadha. The film tells the story of an 18-year old Punjabi Sikh, Jess Bhamra (Parminder Nagra) living in London, who loves to play football but is restricted by her conservative parents. She eventually gets an opportunity when she's noticed by Jules Paxton (Keira Knightley), another football enthusiast. The film is essentially about Jess fighting conventions and making her way to be a footballer, alongside the theme of inter-cultural differences and the quest for identity.

Making / Production

The film is directed by Gurinder Chadha and is produced by Deepak Nayar and Gurinder Chadha. It is shot at various locations including London and Hamburg, showcasing a lot of local culture, customs, and community. The film captures the heart of multicultural London wonderfully.

Actors

• Parminder Nagra: Played the role of "Jess" — the Punjabi girl who loves football. Her portrayal reflects the lack of freedom due to cultural constraints and yet, her determination to pursue her passion.
• Keira Knightley: She played the role of "Jules" — Jess' English friend who shares the same passion for football. Knightley's portrayal of Jules reflects the cultural contrast with Jess's life.
• Anupam Kher: Played the role of "Mr. Bhamra" — the conservative but loving father of Jess. His portrayal reflects anxieties of an immigrant parent.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film's title is a reference to the football player David Beckham, and his skill at scoring from free kicks by "bending" the ball past a wall of defenders.
• This was Keira Knightley's breakout film role.
• A stage musical version of the film opened in London's West End in 2015.

Awards

Bend It Like Beckham was notably awarded the 'Audience Award for Best Film' at the Locarno International Film Festival. Parminder Nagra was also nominated for 'Best Actress' in the British Independent Film Awards.

Quotes

• "Anyone can cook Aloo Gobi, but who can bend a ball like Beckham?"
• "Who ate my beans on toast?"
• "I didn't ask to be good at football."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Move On Up" by Curtis Mayfield
• "Do Your Thing" by Basement Jaxx
• "She's a Lady" by Tom Jones