Sixth Happiness

Sixth Happiness is an endearing British drama film released in 1997. The film features an impressive cast, including Firdaus Kanga, who not only stars in the lead role but also masterfully adapts his semi-autobiographical novel, 'Trying To Grow' for the screenplay. Souad Faress and Khodus Wadia also make vital contributions to the film's unforgettable performances.

Setting the foundation of the narrative, Sixth Happiness takes place in the bustling city of Bombay, India, during the 1960s and 70s. The film captures the brimming spirit of the era, contrasting the lively festivities with the harsh realities of life. It warmly embraces the cacophony, colors, complexity, and cultural richness of the locale which forms an integral part of the film's narrative backdrop.

The story revolves around Brit Kotwal, played by Firdaus Kanga, a young, thoughtful boy born with brittle bones due to a rare genetic disorder known as 'osteogenesis imperfecta.' The plot delves into Brit's life with profound sensitivity, exploring the universe from his perspective — his multilayered relationships within his Parsee community, his unique friendship with his mother (Souad Faress), his intellectual pursuits, and his tumultuous emotional journey as he comes to terms with his sexual orientation. The title 'Sixth Happiness' refers to the Parsee tradition of celebrating five happiness-in-our-life stages — birth, nava jote (initiation), marriage, the birth of a child, and death. In this respect, Brit's 'sixth happiness' symbolizes his accepting self-discovery and use of creativity to construct his joy.

An engaging element in Sixth Happiness is the portrayal of Brit's relationship with his mother, who is a strong and influential figure in his life. Their bond forms the film's emotional core, as they navigate the challenges posed by Brit's condition, familial conflicts, and societal prejudices. Brit's realization of his sexual identity — and its acceptance — takes center stage during the film's latter half, further complicated by his physical limitations.

Firdaus Kanga's performance as Brit is a standout. With an in-depth understanding of his character, Kanga portrays Brit's joys, frustrations, desires, and intellectual curiosity with exquisite subtlety. His performance is complemented by a memorable ensemble cast that includes veterans like Souad Faress, who essays his mother's role with memorable grace and nuance, and Khodus Wadia as the benevolent family servant, Musa.

Directed by Waris Hussein, Sixth Happiness is a nuanced exploration of several themes — love, sexuality, disability, and spirituality— within the complex weave of Bombay's bustling society. Hussein deals with the issues sensitively, without reducing them to cliches or using them merely for dramatic stakes. Beneath the colorful surface, the film acts as a sharp commentary on patriarchal norms, intolerance, economic disparities, and the plight of minorities within a multicultural society.

The visual language of Sixth Happiness matches its rich narrative, capturing the essence of its period setting. The film's aesthetics underline the everyday Parsee life, weaving the bustling city's dynamism with its quieter, tender moments. Whether it’s the costuming, the set design, or the cinematographic choices, everything adds to the creation of a specific place and time.

Interlacing humor, drama, and insightful observations, the screenplay is one of the movie's many strengths. Kanga's dialogue, often laced with humour, provides an entirely different dimension to the narrative. He does not shy away from illustrating the societal taboos, often addressing them directly with unflinching honesty and dry wit.

Furthermore, the film's distinctive background score significantly adds to the overall movie-watching experience. It judiciously complements the film proceedings — ranging from the buoyant beats permeating the street scenes to the subtle, haunting strains that underscore emotional moments.

To sum up, Sixth Happiness is a poignant and thought-provoking film that forces you to think and appreciate life while dealing with its diverse themes. A profound character study, a vivid slice-of-life narrative, and a broader commentary on society — the movie is all that and much more. While the movie speaks from a perspective not often heard, it highlights universal themes of acceptance and self-discovery that resonate with audiences globally, making it a significant entry into the catalog of must-watch culturally inclusive cinema.