There are a few nice moments – a visually delightful wedding sequence stands out – but for the most part this is an uninspired and unrewarding sequel.
A cross-cultural sequel that’s as gently comical as the first was satirical. Despite lashings of Eastern promise, it’s as British as a chip butty.
Eleven years on but without a great deal more to add, DeEmmony's saga runs out of gas.
The humour has broadened as surely as the vision and human authenticity have narrowed.
West is West is full of delights: Peter Robertson’s airy cinematography is casually gorgeous, the Hindi film songs on the soundtrack are delightful, and the acting consistently top-notch. But there's too much going on.
The film's plea for tolerance and understanding is blameless, but its instinct for the funny bone is clueless.
Perhaps it doesn't have the novelty of the first film, but it's refreshingly un-parochial, with charm and fun, and Bassett and Puri are reliably excellent.
The film takes an age to decide how seriously it wants to take itself and the humour often feels as dated as the 1970s setting.
Once again, it is Puri's commanding presence that holds the film together, though as Sajid, young Aqib Khan has enough natural charm and confidence to make him an endearing scene-stealer.
Deeply disappointing.
Something's lacking in West Is West, and that something is a plot.
West is West: Aybu Khan-Din interview
British-Asian cinema: the sequel
East goes West: The Khans are back
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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