As a British Indian and film maker this film really changed my perception of Indian cinema and has given me hope that all is not lost (only if India produced more films like Mother India and Salam Bombay -Bollywood would find its way). Sharu Khan is an inspiring actor! Yes he can act very well and his rendition of "Waiting For A Girl Like You" by Foreigner is funny! Director Ashutosh Gowariker has done a tremendous job.

Swades deals with real issues and tries to bring a conclusion to them through a beautiful coming of age tale of the main character Mohan (Sharu Khan). TRUE - It doesn't have the Bollywood formula. And people expected that - but its a slow story that needs to unwind and does unwind well to help you get to know the characters and relate. Its simply a tale about India. Its beauty. Its mystery. Its people.

Like the first reviewer Sabsinha say "Thank god for Swades." I am in strong agreement. It was only sooner or later that something this ground breaking would find its self a leader in new wave of films coming up for air. This film is simply stunning.

Asif Kapadia's "The Warrior" is beautifully directed like this film. Different content yes, but technically its cinematography, music, direction and script are matured enough for for foreign awards.

Bolly"would" seems to be emulating the foreign market with silly Blockbusters. I hope its own home grown talent can flourish and Inspire.

Inspired I am indeed. I hope you will be too.

Hope this helps, Ricky