Blinded by the Light: Touching but Cheesy

Rating: 6.1/10

A refreshing perspective on the classic coming-of-age story, Blinded by the Light delivers a heartwarming, personal experience yet falls short on execution. 

Highlights: 

• Story follows a Pakistani boy and his family (read: non-white)

• Likable lead character Javed, well-played by Viveik Kalra

• The fact this is based on a true story!

Lowlights: 

• Springsteen music often feels forced

• The flashing lyrics onscreen distract

• Characters’ actions sometimes feel overdramatic and unrealistic

I very much appreciated the new perspective Javed brought to Blinded By the Light. It is not often there is a big-budget American movie centering around a Pakistani family and it was refreshing. Javed's experience felt touching and realistic, from the expectations placed on him by his parents to the blatant racism he experiences. However, Javed's obsession with Springsteen often seemed cheesy and forced (e.g. the flashing lyrics on the screen as he listens to his music). The outbursts of singing were unnecessary as the film was not a musical, but this can be easily forgiven considering the music was the Boss'. His music will always be great and Javed's connection to his lyrics is similar to what many of us have experienced with our own musical preferences.

Did you watch the movie? Do you want more? Check out Greetings from Bury Park: Race, Religion and Rock N’ Roll by Sarfraz Manzoor, the book that inspired the movie.

Watch the trailer!