mark-blythe

The soundtrack and club scenes had been the draw and I was expecting a flimsy story line as a byline to an otherwise powerful music experience. The music did not disappoint, an exciting mix of club, and Asian mixes was perfectly blended into the storyline. What surprised was the story. Yes there are a lot of threads, some left incomplete, but the central character, played brilliantly by new face James Floyd, provides a strong and highly believable performance. His relationship with a beautifully cast Alyy Khan as the up tight, straight-laced traditional brother is just right. Khan's contempt for Floyd's character is exquisitely played. Floyd is supported by a great looking young cast of talented young actors, Shivani Ghai is stunning. Elyes Gabel, Neet Mohan join more mainstream Adam Deacon as the central group of friends. Gabel in particular is a revelation, engaging and good looking, but able to carry off his "screwed-up" character's role really well. The story gives a rarely seen insight into the life of young British Asian's which captures the conflicts and contradictions that exist. It is also interesting to see the family conflict not from the parents to their children but between siblings. Katia Winter and Simon Webbe add some interesting spice. Menhaj Huda as made a movie which gets over an angle and a story about growing up in London that does not fall into the trap of terrorism or East is East shallowness. This film may not be for everyone, but it is an accomplished story, with a great young cast and a stunning soundtrack.