The Bollywood Fusion Dance Film That’s More Than Just a Razzle Dazzle Spectacle

Lena Khan’s “Best of the Best” brings a long-overdue story about competitive Bollywood dance and its intersections with identity politics to Netflix viewers worldwide. As an Indian-American experience, it has been ripe for cinematic exploration, but surprisingly underrepresented on the big screen.

At its core, “Best of the Best” feels like a response to the South Asian diaspora’s struggle for self-respect. People from this community often find themselves relegated to side roles or comedic relief in mainstream films – think Apu from The Simpsons or tokenized supporting characters. This is precisely what “Best of the Best” seeks to subvert by centering on South Asian protagonists and their passions.

The Power of Representation

Khan drew inspiration for her film from watching Bollywood dance competitions in college, as well as directing episodes of Netflix’s “Never Have I Ever.” Her background has given her a unique perspective on how representation can shift the focus of storytelling. By making room for multiple minority characters and giving them equal depth, Khan argues that we can move beyond tokenization and explore human relationships.

The casting choices reflect this commitment to diversity. Actors like Maitreyi Ramakrishnan underwent significant physical transformations to bring authenticity to their roles. This dedication to realism is impressive given many cast members had little or no prior experience with competitive dance.

A New Era for South Asian Storytelling?

Khan’s comments on the industry’s shift in its approach to South Asian stories are telling. Since her independent feature “The Tiger Hunter” came out in 2016, there has been a notable increase in projects centered on these experiences and perspectives. While structural barriers remain – such as the lack of romantic comedies featuring South Asian leads – Khan is heartened by growing recognition that these stories deserve to be told.

This momentum can also be attributed to shows like “Never Have I Ever” and films like “The Big Sick,” which have paved the way for more diverse voices in mainstream media. The inclusion of Joy Crookes’ song in the soundtrack, despite initial resistance from executives, is a testament to this changing landscape.

A Deliberate Approach to Cultural Context

One striking aspect of “Best of the Best” is its refusal to over-explain cultural references for a global audience. Khan’s decision to trust that viewers will pick up on these nuances speaks to her faith in the intelligence and empathy of her audience.

This approach has its roots in the broader conversation around representation, which often involves balancing authenticity with accessibility. By not feeling the need to constantly contextualize every detail, Khan creates a richly textured world that rewards attention and curiosity.

The Future of South Asian Storytelling

As Khan looks ahead to her next projects – both personal and professional – it’s clear she remains committed to exploring overlooked people and subjects. With “Best of the Best,” she has proven herself to be a masterful storyteller capable of navigating complex themes and identities with sensitivity and nuance.

Khan’s approach to storytelling is evident in her own experiences: when we tell stories that reflect our own experiences – rather than relying on tokenism or stereotypes – something remarkable happens. We begin to see ourselves in the world around us, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives.