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The Guru

Where to Watch The Guru

G
1969

The Guru is a 1969 British drama film directed by James Ivory, known for his distinctive craftsmanship in cinematic storytelling. This particular film showcases the intriguing blend of a classic British attitude with a bewitching Eastern spirituality. The tale plays out showcasing rich cultural dichotomies, potent themes of self-discoveries, and an intriguing exploration of an eastern mystique.

The film stars Rita Tushingham, known for her extraordinary artistic prowess, Michael York, exuding his usual charismatic screen presence, and Utpal Dutt, infusing the movie with his unique versatility. Their performances bring depth and richness to the characters, bridging the gap between different worlds and perspectives.

The plot centres around a young British rock star named Tom Pickle, played brilliantly by Michael York. Tom is submerged in the frantic world of British pop culture. Intrigued and somewhat disillusioned by the transient trappings of fame, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Desiring to deepen his understanding of music, he decides to travel to India to learn to play the sitar, exploring the mystical roots of eastern music.

In India, Tom's path crosses with Jenny, played by the ever-vibrant Rita Tushingham. Jenny is the daughter of the British ambassador in India, and it does not take them long to form a complex bond. The love interest blends nicely into the storyline, adding emotional layers to Tom's journey that oscillate between moments of youthful spontaneity and profound contemplation.

The Guru, played by Utpal Dutt, is the sitar maestro who becomes Tom's guide into the mystical world of classical Indian music. The Guru is a pivotal character around which the crux of the storyline revolves. He brings a whole new perspective to Tom's life, sharing his wisdom, imparting skills, and introducing the young star to the enigmatic world of eastern spirituality.

The movie expands on several themes that were quite potent during the late sixties. It teterters on the brink of exploring the counterculture movement, the desire to break the norms, and the thirst for a less materialistic, more mindful way of life. These themes are intertwined throughout the film, giving it depth and a subtle philosophical undertone.

James Ivory's direction dives deep into the contrasts between the eastern world's spirituality and the Western pop culture's mundane superficiality. He skillfully captures the nuances of this contrast, depicting the protagonist's transformation from a distracted pop star into a spiritually awakened musician. The film is refreshingly grounded and yet sports an ephemeral charm reminiscent of Ivory’s later highly acclaimed works.

The film’s delightful narrative is enhanced by its striking visuals. James Ivory, an Anglophile to his core, adoringly recreates the essence of the Indian Subcontinent, its vibrant landscapes and bustling markets with a combination of elaborate designed sets and on-location filming. The contrast between the colorful vistas of India and the monochromatic aesthetics of London provides a visual treat, adding to its captivating storytelling.

Furthermore, the movie splendidly highlights the subtleties of Indian classical music. The soul-searching rhythm of the sitar underscores the narrative, playing a critical role in the central plot. The film reaffirms the transformative power of music, weaving it in its cultural context, and presents it as a mirror to one's soul-searching journey.

Despite the elements of drama, romance, and spiritual awakening, The Guru maintains an underlying tone of quiet humor throughout the film. Ivory presents the prevailing ironies inherent in the encounters between East and West in a manner that is both respectful yet renders moments of levity that occasionally border on the absurd.

In summary, The Guru is an immersive cinematic experience that transports the viewer on a journey of cultural fascination and personal revelation. It underscores the meaning of spiritual awareness, the importance of self-discovery, and the often-unforeseen impact of music in our lives. The performance of the lead actors and the masterful direction of James Ivory wonderfully captures a fair, nuanced, and engaging narrative of East meets West. This movie offers an enticing watch for those interested in exploratory narratives and rich cultural connection.

The Guru is a Art House & International, Comedy movie released in 1969. It has a runtime of 112 min. Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 5.4..

How to Watch The Guru

Where can I stream The Guru movie online? The Guru is available to watch and stream, buy on demand, download at Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD, Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent The Guru for a limited time or purchase the movie for downloading.

5.4/10
Director
James Ivory
Stars
Rita Tushingham, Michael York, Utpal Dutt