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Little Box of Sweets (2008)

Director: Meneka Das

Time Out rating

Average user rating

3 reviews

Movie review

From Time Out London

There’s some eye-catching photography of northern India’s parched plains in Maneka Das’s debut as writer and director, but other than that, it’s difficult to see why this wispy and toothless melodrama has been given a release in cinemas. The story comprises a checklist of clichés about domineering patriarchs, forbidden love and uncertain futures with Das staring as Asha, a servant girl living with grandparents who wants the opportunity to go to university with her best friend Lalli (Sheenu Das).

Her relationship with the dashing, rebellious Seth (Joe Anderson) is complicated by the interference of his pushy commissioner father and, as they try desperately to consummate their love, it all comes to a predictably teary head. It’s a dull, if competently made, film, which is done no favours by its earnest tone, a soppy orchestral score and a slew of artificial performances by actors clinging far too tightly to their lines. It would be far better suited to daytime TV.

Author: David Jenkins

Time Out London Issue 1982, August 14-20, 2008

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User reviews of this film

James Powell said...

Posted on Aug 13 2008 16:33 I am very interested in seeing this film as I love India I have also watched the trailer and it looks like its going to be a good film. it is good to read other comments from people who have seen films and not just taking the reviewers word as gospel ;-)

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Rose said...

Posted on Aug 13 2008 11:22 i watched the trailer on the website tht has made me want to go, gonna try and c it nxt wk

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Gurpreet aka filmifan said...

Posted on Aug 13 2008 10:29 I had the pleasure of seeing this film at the ICA at a special screening in January after hearing about it on the BBC Asian Network and obviously saw a different film. It was a beautiful heart wrenching story - simple yes but beautifully portrayed with all round professionalism - I suppose the good thing is that we all have opinions but take it from me it is very much worth seeing!
G (filmifan)

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