Ae Fond Kiss (2004) movie Review
In Ken Loach's movie "Ae Fond Kiss," Gerard Kelly, not David Wallace as previously mentioned, plays the role of the parish priest. The film tells a heartwarming Romeo-and-Juliet story about a second-generation Pakistani man, Casim, who falls in love with Roisin, a young Irish Catholic woman teaching music at his sister's school.
Casim, portrayed by Atta Yaqub, is a DJ in Glasgow with dreams of owning his own club. Despite pursuing his own aspirations, he complies with his family's wishes for an arranged marriage. On the other hand, Roisin, played by Eva Birthistle, is a teacher at a Roman Catholic secondary school. Their paths cross when Casim's sister creates a stir at school by rejecting Western labels and asserting her identity as a Glaswegian, Pakistani, and Rangers supporter.
The film explores the complexities of interracial relationships, focusing on the challenges faced by Casim and Roisin. While their love story is not the most controversial, the movie hints at the potentially more dangerous dynamics if the roles were reversed, alluding to the issue of "honour killings" of young women by their families.
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"Ae Fond Kiss" serves as a reminder that racial and cultural differences in Britain persist, with some communities experiencing stronger tensions. Casim faces backlash from his extended family, and his sister's arranged marriage is canceled due to the scandal surrounding his affair with Roisin. The film sheds light on the enduring complexities of navigating cultural expectations and the impact on personal relationships.
Casim has witnessed his father endure racism for years, believing that traditional values from their homeland are crucial for the community's survival. Roisin, in contrast, lacks strong ties to the Catholic faith and family, leading to an ideological clash based on her realistic approach to relationships. When asked if she'll love Casim forever, Roisin honestly admits she doesn't know.
The film's standout moments involve the compelling father figures. Ahmad Riaz, portraying Tariq, is a believable and devoted dad, engaging in everyday struggles but deeply committed to Casim. A powerful scene unfolds when Tahara announces her departure, revealing genuine, non-theatrical emotions.
The clash between Roisin and her stern parish priest, played by non-professional Fr David Wallace, is another intense scene. He denies signing her employment certificate due to her perceived lack of adherence to Catholic values, resembling a strict father with a rebellious daughter.
Casim and Roisin's relationship lacks conventional dramatic declarations of love, opting for a more realistic portrayal. Their love story unfolds amidst political complexities, as both their homelands experienced Britain's imperial retreat. The film leaves the battle lines blurred in a post-political world, emphasizing that love doesn't solve everything. The title, borrowed from Burns, reflects a melancholic farewell, signifying the movie's departure from yesterday's political certainties. Despite its inconclusive ending, Ken Loach's film remains a heartwarming tribute to the challenges and solitude of love.