MY NAME IS KHAN 4.0***

If there is a movie worth watching this year, then it has to be this one as it contains a pure and simple message, not just for one person, or a religion, but for everyone, a message for humanity. The lead character, Rizvan Khan, suffers from Asperger Syndrome, a form of autism that allows the person to function more than otherwise. Born with this social interaction disability, Rizvan detests anything yellow or loud, but is gifted with the ability of repairing most any kind of appliance.. Events lead him to the US to live with his brother where he falls in love with and marries the vivacious Mandira who has a son by a prior marriage. Things change after 9/11 when Mandira’s son is killed as the outgrowth of intense communal hatred for Muslims and, therefore, his Muslim last name ‘Khan’. Heartbroken Mandira comes to hate her husband, Rizvan, for marrying her and giving her and her now dead son his Muslim last name. It is now up to Khan to regain his lost love!
The movie brings home very vividly the message that not every Muslim is a terrorist, and Rizvan’s mission, his obsession, is to tell this to the US President, and by doing so, he hopes to win back Mandira. Many obstacles are thrown in his path, including his being suspected of being a terrorist and the imprisonment and torture that follows. But nothing deters our undaunted hero who even generously offers to repair the air conditioner in the prison! Ah yes, he also teaches us about the correct pronunciation of his Muslim name “Khan”
Khan’s perception of life is as his beloved mother taught him: the world includes only two groups of people – good people and bad people. This may be overly general yet is so very true. The memory of his mother follows him always. The portrayal of Rizvan’s childhood is amazing. His relationship with the love of his life, Mandira who works as a hairdresser and who ultimately agrees to marry him, is totally charming. And his efforts to win her back are awe-inspiring and heartwarming, and are guaranteed to bring many tears to your eyes.
Simply stated this is a wonderful film that should not be missed. It comes out of India from the Bollywood franchise but is way beyond their usual fare. This is excellent and should be nominated for Best Foreign film and should probably win,

NOTE: You’ll have to rent this one as it came out earlier this year. Also, since it’s an authentic Indian film, you’ll have to read subtitles most of the time BUT it is worth it.


Clark