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Review

Director, co-writer and star Nisha Ganatra explore the clash between the values of a traditional Indian family and their rebel lesbian daughter in this new comedy. Reena (Ganatra) is a second generation Indian-American who rides a motorcycle, designs and photographs henna-tattoos and lives with Lisa (Jill Hennessy, of TV’s Law & Order), her lovely, but commitment-fearing blonde American lover. Her defiant way of life and lack of proper decorum prove to be a constant annoyance to her mother (Madhur Jaffrey) as well as to Sarita, her happily married sister (also married to an American) and longtime rival for her mother’s affections and approval. But when Sarita is unable to conceive a child, Reena, mindful of having a chance to do something her "perfect" sister can’t and to gain her mother’s approval volunteers to bear the child. The already strained family ties are truly tested when Reena discovers the joys of motherhood, much to the consternation and conflicting emotions of her lover, mother and sister. Filmed with a winning script infused with wit and sensitivity, the story entertainingly explores the true nature of family values. The acting is impressive, especially Madhur Jaffrey as the wry mother, a woman steeped in the ways of the old country but quite attentive to the wild ways of America. An inventive, charming, heartwarming dyke/family comedy.