ABCD

ABCD: American-Born Confused Desi is an Indian Malayalam comedy drama film released in 2013. Directed by Martin Prakkat, the film showcases the journey of two spoilt young men who are forced to live a humble and rugged life in Kerala, India. The film features Dulquer Salmaan, Jacob Gregory, and Aparna Gopinath in lead roles. This movie is a fun-filled roller coaster ride that immerses viewers in a compelling and whimsical narrative, coupled with excellent performances and engrossing humor.

The movie centers around Johns Isaac, played compellingly by Dulquer Salmaan, who is an affluent young man born and brought up in America. His cousin, Kora, played skillfully by Jacob Gregory, complements Johns's character impeccably. Born and raised in a cushioned lifestyle in the United States, both Johns and Kora lead a pampered and luxurious life, taking things for granted, and showing little concern for the value of hard work and money. They represent the so-called 'ABCD,' or 'American-Born Confused Desi,' mostly characterized by their confused identities in terms of birth and ethnicity.

The plot thickens when Johns's father, played by Lalu Alex, who is concerned about his son's reckless lifestyle, decides to send him to India, specifically Kerala, thoughtfully succumbing to the cultural roots. Johns and Kora are thrown into a lifestyle that is diametrically opposite to the one they are used to. Instead of a high-end lifestyle with the luxury of multiple credit cards, fast cars and connections, they are made to live in a small house in a village in Kerala without any money or access to their luxurious lifestyle back in the US.

Replete with obstacles, this new rural and conventional life pushes both Johns and Kora to their limits. The story primarily focuses on their gradual growth from being "confused desi's" to their self-realization and understanding of their roots, culture, and relatives.

The blossoming love interest in the film is seen in the form of a social worker, Madhumita, proficiently played by Aparna Gopinath. This character adds depth to the movie, with her strong, independent nature challenging Johns at many levels and impacting his journey positively.

ABCD: American-Born Confused Desi is a film that paints a vivid picture of an uneasy journey of discovering self-identity. The theme dances around a very pertinent quest of dual citizen individuals experiencing a cultural clash and attempting to reconcile the nuances of their homeland with their foreign upbringing. It captures the dilemma faced by the younger generation, having to balance two divergent cultures and identities.

Director Martin Prakkat has delicately woven humour and struggle to portray the culture shock and difficulties faced by ABCDs. Dulquer Salmaan and Jacob Gregory shine in their roles, successfully delivering an engaging story with their infectious energy and comic timing, which significantly add to the light-heartedness of the movie.

Aparna Gopinath is refreshing in her role as the confident social worker who adds flavor to the storyline. She brings a compelling presence to the role of Madhumita, and her on-screen chemistry with Salmaan strikes a chord with the audience.

ABCD : American-Born Confused Desi also boasts of some groovy and melodious music numbers that add character to the film. Gopi Sundar’s music and Jomon T. John's cinematography seamlessly complement the ambiance and mood of the film. The songs have a contemporary charm blended with traditional tunes that remain in the viewer's heart long after watching.

The film's brilliant balance of comedy with a heartwarming narrative of self-discovery unfolds moments of laughter and contemplation in equal measures, making it a delightful watch. ABCD: American-Born Confused Desi is a must-watch if you enjoy comedy-dramas that offer great entertainment, as well as food for thought with their compelling narratives and profound underlying messages. It offers viewers a chance to connect with their roots and inspires them to seek their own self-identity unabashedly.