Perspectives

Reception and criticism

The film Bend It Like Beckham directed by Gurinder Chadha came out in 2002. It was a huge commercial success, earning over 76 million dollars at the box office. This made it the highest-grossing film about football. 

Film critics have given the film mostly positive reviews Several outlets, from Los Angeles Times to The Times of India and Planet Bollywood praised the film’s light-hearted comedy, realistic social commentary, as well as its inspiring message. The happy ending was also a commonly praised aspect of the film. 

The audience reviews are generally favorable, praising the film’s comedy and novel approach. However, other reviews are less favorable, with the movie’s romantic subplot receiving heavy criticism. Several people argued that Joe’s romantic interest in a younger girl from his position of power can be considered predatory. Furthermore, the love triangle between Joe, Jules, and Jess plays off a common trope but undermines the message of ‘girl power’ that the film is supposed to convey by putting the two female leads in competition with each other over a man. 

The film was nominated for several awards, including a BAFTA and a Golden Globe for Best Fi...