Most Rom-Coms are pretty cut and dry and have the same basic formula. A boy (or girl) meets a girl (or boy), and they fall in love. But not every love story is that simple. For millions of Americans who are first, second, or even third-generation immigrants – sometimes the love story is a bit more contractual and what they see portrayed on the screen is only something meant for Hollywood.
In a refreshing take on the rom-com, Americanish takes a much different approach to the love story. The movie follows two Muslim American sisters and their cousin who all are on their own different paths through life, love, faith, and careers. Each of the women is very set on their own future – one on her career, one on her education, and the other on finding a Pakistani man to marry through the newspaper ads. And while all of them have the same faith and a similar background, their own path to love is different and may test everything that is important to them.
While arranged marriages and answering marriage ads may not seem like something that still happens for most Americans today – there’s still a large part of the population that this happens in, and is not often portrayed in media.
Each of the girls in the movie has very distinct and different personalities and brings to the screen different versions of modern women within their own culture. None are discounted for their personal goals and beliefs, and even when questioned about them – they are still supported by the other women. It does highlight the differences in the more modern women and the older generations but still respects their culture and the impact on their lives. It’s a refreshing juxtaposition on modern rom-coms with a different cultural twist to it.
Americanish has won awards at film competitions throughout the world and is now playing in theaters throughout the country. This isn’t your traditional love story, and it’s a much different perspective on the rom-coms we’re used to seeing. But the movie is definitely one that will leave you smiling when you leave the theater.
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About Americanish
Welcome to America: Where dreams come true…ish. A break from the traditional romantic comedy, Americanish highlights different layers of womanhood as they intersect with cultural and societal expectations. Americanish invites viewers into the home and lives of three marriage-aged women as they navigate the often turbulent waters of romance, culture, career, and family. We follow the joys and tribulations of career-driven sisters Maryam and Sam Khan, and their fish-out-of-water cousin Ameera. Set in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York, the film follows a relatable and endearing storyline offering a fresh perspective on classic rom-com tropes. Americanish delves into the complexity of trying to both honor and break from cultural traditions while balancing personal values and career goals in a society that does not always accommodate both.