Denzel Washington, a 92% Rotten Tomatoes-approved romance movie, is waiting for you on HBO Max!
In 1991, Denzel Washington's career was on fire. Fresh off his Best Supporting Actor Oscar win for "Glory" and his captivating role in "Mo' Better Blues," he took on a role in Mira Nair's romantic drama, "Mississippi Masala." This film, made on a modest budget, tells the story of a Ugandan Indian family, expelled from their home by Idi Amin. While the family patriarch, Jay, dreams of returning to Kampala, his daughter Mina finds happiness in the U.S. Their lives take a turn when Mina falls for Demetrius, a Black carpet cleaner played by Washington, which ignites Jay's disapproval.
But here's where it gets controversial: Nair's film boldly explores the racial tensions between two minority groups who, despite sharing similar experiences of displacement and economic hardship, are at odds. Jay and other Ugandan Indians harbor resentment towards Black people, associating them with Amin's regime, while the local Black community reciprocates this animosity. This forces Mina and Demetrius to keep their romance hidden, but secrets rarely stay buried. Will their love survive?
This film, a follow-up to Nair's Oscar-nominated "Salaam Bombay!," marked a shift in her career, yet it resonated deeply with critics and audiences alike, as reflected in its impressive Rotten Tomatoes score.
And this is the part most people miss... "Mississippi Masala" currently boasts a 92% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It's worth noting that the film's Popcornmeter score may have been affected by some who disagree with Nair's son, Zohran Mamdani, the new Mayor of New York City.
/Film's Leo Noboru Lima even named Nair's film as one of the top 15 best romance movies of all time. Washington is undeniably magnetic as Demetrius, creating a fascinating contrast with Choudhury. They are deeply in love, yet their world seems determined to keep them apart. This is a top-tier drama that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
What are your thoughts? Do you agree with the film's portrayal of racial dynamics? Share your opinions in the comments!
