BANGLA (Italian Movie Review)



7/10

Phaim meets Asia at a club where he performs with his band. There is a spark, but there’s also a problem - Phaim’s and Asia’s upbringings are as different as chalk and cheese. Phaim, although born in Italy, is from a conservative Muslim family from Bangladesh and Asia has two moms, a rainbow baby brother and a dad who is a part time rocker and part time actor. These differences are reconciled in the most awkward and hilarious way.

BANGLA is a romantic comedy told from Phaim’s point of view with a sarcastic look at the multiculturalism in modern Italy. The film avoids any criticism, looking for a funny side of everything instead. 

Phaim’s relationship with Asia is gentle, genuine and full of chemistry. But it is the episodic roles that shine the most, which includes Phaim’s fabulously dysfunctional family, the members of his music band and Asia’s parents. 

There are a lot of laughs to be had. The director Phaim Bhuiyan who also plays the title role, knows his subject well, but it is his view of the world and its problems that is engaging for the viewer. BANGLA is a very small movie but its big heart and quirky subject matter make it relevant and entertaining.

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