🪶 Story & Synopsis
“City of Joy” is a compelling 1992 drama film directed by Roland Joffé, with a screenplay by Mark Medoff, based on the novel of the same name by Dominique Lapierre. The story follows the journey of Hazari Pal, a rural farmer who moves to Calcutta with his wife Kamla and their three children in search of a better life.
Upon their arrival in Calcutta, the Pal family faces a series of challenges, including being cheated out of their rent money and left homeless. Hazari struggles to find employment to support his family in the bustling city. Meanwhile, another narrative unfolds in parallel, focusing on Texan doctor Max, portrayed by Patrick Swayze, who is assaulted and robbed upon his arrival in Calcutta.
The paths of Hazari and Max converge when Hazari discovers Max lying in the street and takes him to the district where the homeless and lepers reside, known as the “city of joy.” This encounter leads to a deep friendship between Hazari, Max, and clinic doctor Joan, played by Pauline Collins. Hazari eventually secures a job as a rickshaw driver, immersing himself in his new urban life.
As the characters navigate the challenges of poverty, resilience, and hope in the vibrant yet harsh city of Calcutta, “City of Joy” weaves together their stories, showcasing the human spirit’s enduring strength in the face of adversity. The film sheds light on the stark realities of life in the slums of modern India while highlighting the importance of community, friendship, and the pursuit of a better future.
🧑 Cast & Crew
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Patrick Swayze | Max Lowe |
| Om Puri | Hazari Pal |
| Pauline Collins | Joan Bethel |
| Shabana Azmi | Kamla H. Pal |
| Art Malik | Ashok Ghatak |
| Anashua Majumdar | Selima |
| Ayesha Dharker | Amrita H. Pal |
| Santu Chowdhury | Shambu H. Pal |
| Imran Badsah Khan | Manooj H. Pal |
| Shyamanand Jalan | Mr. Ghatak, the godfather |
| Anjan Dutt | Dr Sunil |
| Nabil Shaban | Anouar |
| Sanjay Pathak | Shoba |
| Debatosh Ghosh | Ram Chande |
| Sunita Sengupta | Pormina |
| Loveleen Mishra | Shanta |
| Pavan Malhotra | Ashish |
| Iftekhar | Hazari’s father |
| Chitra Sen | The angry woman |
| Dipti Dave | Schoolgirl |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Welcome to the bustling streets of the “City of Joy” where the movie unfolds like a vibrant tapestry of human resilience and connection. Picture this: it’s like trying to navigate a crowded market, weaving through the stalls of emotions and experiences, each one offering a unique perspective on life.
Now, let’s dive into this cinematic journey that takes us to the heart of Calcutta, where the film portrays a tale of survival and hope amidst adversity. The plot revolves around Hasari Pal, who moves his family to the city’s poorest area, known as the “city of joy.” Here, he encounters Texan doctor Max, played by Patrick Swayze, in a chance meeting that sets the stage for an exploration of human spirit and compassion.
The themes of resilience and humanity shine through in this narrative, painting a poignant picture of individuals striving for better lives in challenging circumstances. The movie beautifully captures the essence of solidarity and courage in the face of hardships.
Speaking of performances, while Patrick Swayze’s character might not have been as captivating as expected, the rest of the cast delivers solid portrayals that bring depth to their roles. Om Puri’s performance is particularly noteworthy, adding emotional weight to the story.
The direction skillfully navigates through moments that are both graphic and striking, creating a visual feast for the audience. The cinematography captures the gritty yet vibrant streets of Calcutta, immersing viewers in the setting and atmosphere of the city.
- Acting and Characters: While Patrick Swayze’s character may not have had the desired impact, Om Puri’s performance shines through with emotional depth.
- Direction: The director adeptly balances graphic moments with striking visuals that capture the essence of Calcutta.
- Cinematography: The cinematography beautifully showcases both the grittiness and vibrancy of Calcutta’s streets.
Binge-watching Tip: Keep an eye out for subtle nuances in performances that add layers to the characters’ journeys. It’s these details that truly bring out the richness of storytelling.
As we journey through “City of Joy,” we witness not just a tale but an exploration of humanity’s struggles and triumphs. The movie serves as a reminder that amidst chaos and despair, there is always room for hope and compassion.
So, dear reader, are you ready to embark on this emotional rollercoaster through Calcutta’s streets? How would you navigate challenges if you found yourself in a similar situation?
In conclusion, “City of Joy” offers a moving portrayal of human resilience set against a backdrop of hardship and compassion. While some pacing issues may exist, it ultimately delivers a message of hope and solidarity that resonates deeply with viewers.
Ratings: 7/10
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enjoyable account of human spirit | Unnecessarily long |
| Strong supporting cast | Slow pacing in parts |
| Realistic portrayal of characters | Patrick Swayze’s character lacks impact |
| Memorable and striking moments | Considered fictional despite true stories |
Feedback
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City of Joy (1992) - IMDb
I think City of Joy is one of those films you either do or don’t connect with. It’s a study of growth, of friendship, of acceptance. It’s a coming-of-age film. It’s a study of how similar humans everywhere are in spite of vast cultural differences. It’s a well-shot location piece. It’s a character study. It’s an action film, in its own way. Patrick Swayze and Om Puri put their hearts into their roles. The supporting cast is interesting and effective. The script has drama and emotional depth.Although the plot certainly can’t claim absolute originality, director Joffé’s nuanced look at the cultural milieu and the care with which he portrays the characters’ relationships and internal struggles make this a worthwhile, enjoyable film.”Roadhouse” and “Dirty Dancing” were both lots of fun, but for me this is Patrick Swayze’s best performance, and one of my favorite films of its kind.
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City of Joy (1992 film) - Wikipedia
City of Joy(released in the Philippines as) is a 1992 drama film directed by Roland Joffé, with a screenplay by Mark Medoff. It is based upon the novel of the same name by Dominique Lapierre, which looks at poverty in then-modern India, specifically life in the slums. The film stars Patrick Swayze, Pauline Collins, Om Puri and Shabana Azmi.
Raging Inferno
City of Joy Directed by Roland Joffé Screenplay by Mark Medoff Based on City of Joy by Dominique Lapierre
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City Of Joy movie review & film summary (1992) | Roger Ebert
The stories of the two men cross in Roland Joffe’s “City of Joy,” based on the novel by Dominique Lapierre. One of their common points of contact is an Irish woman, named Joan Bethel and played by Pauline Collins, who runs a clinic which ministers to the sick and homeless. When she discovers that Max is a surgeon, she exerts quiet but unrelenting pressure on him to help at the clinic.
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the 1992 film “City of Joy,” directed by Roland Joffe and based on the novel by Dominique Lapierre, we are taken on a journey to Calcutta where two very different men’s lives intersect in the midst of the city’s chaos and poverty.
The protagonist, Max Lowe, portrayed by Patrick Swayze, is a disillusioned surgeon from Houston who travels to Calcutta in search of meaning and purpose. Upon his arrival, he is immediately confronted with the harsh reality of the city, where thousands live in poverty on the streets and his medical skills are desperately needed. Max’s story intertwines with that of Hasari, played by Om Puri, a man who arrives in Calcutta with his family seeking work but is swindled out of all his money.
The film delves into the challenges faced by these two men in the backdrop of Calcutta’s struggles. Max, initially resistant to getting involved, is eventually persuaded by an Irish woman named Joan Bethel, played by Pauline Collins, to help at a clinic that serves the sick and homeless. Max’s character, although initially portrayed as a drifting hedonist, evolves as he is exposed to the harsh realities of the city.
However, it is Hasari’s story that truly captivates the audience. His resilience and determination to support his family, even resorting to becoming a rickshaw driver after facing numerous setbacks, showcase the strength of the human spirit amidst adversity. Om Puri’s performance brings depth and authenticity to Hasari’s character, making him the heart of the film.
While the film successfully portrays the gritty reality of Calcutta and avoids falling into the trap of a formulaic romance between Max and Joan, it does stumble in its portrayal of the city’s inhabitants. The colorful characters come across as somewhat clichéd and borrowed from Western storytelling rather than authentically Indian.
The movie’s ending, which culminates in a standard battle between good and evil, is criticized for being too predictable and reminiscent of Hollywood clichés. Roger Ebert, the renowned film critic, suggests that the film could have benefited from focusing solely on Hasari’s story rather than diluting it with Max’s narrative.
In conclusion, “City of Joy” offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in Calcutta through the intertwined stories of Max and Hasari. While it may have its flaws, including a somewhat contrived plot and clichéd characters, the film shines in its portrayal of resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of those struggling to survive in the city of joy.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating:
This movie, “City of Joy” (1992), is rated PG-13 for parents to consider. The PG-13 rating suggests that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Parents are urged to be cautious as some scenes may be unsuitable for young viewers.
Parental Guide:
Parents should be aware that “City of Joy” contains some intense themes and moments that may not be suitable for all children. Here is a detailed parental guide to help you make an informed decision about whether this movie is appropriate for your child:
- Sex & Nudity: The movie contains mild romantic themes and brief moments of intimacy between characters. There are no explicit sexual scenes or nudity.
- Violence & Gore: The film depicts scenes of violence, including physical altercations, street fights, and moments of peril. While not overly graphic, these scenes may be intense for younger viewers.
- Profanity: Some mild language and occasional profanities are used throughout the movie.
- Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking: There are depictions of characters smoking cigarettes. Some scenes also show characters consuming alcohol.
- Frightening & Intense Scenes: The movie includes moments of tension, poverty, and struggle in the Calcutta ghetto setting. Some viewers, especially younger audiences, may find these scenes emotionally intense.
Overall, “City of Joy” is a thought-provoking and inspiring film that shines a light on important social issues. Parents are encouraged to watch the movie first to determine if its themes and content are suitable for their children based on their maturity level and sensitivity to the topics portrayed.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | You can watch City of Joy on Amazon Prime Video with a subscription for $8.99/month, after a 30-Day Free Trial. You can also buy or rent the movie on Amazon Prime Video. |
| Netflix | City of Joy is available on Netflix. The movie focuses on women who’ve been sexually brutalized in war-torn Congo and their healing journey at City of Joy. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
All that is not given is lost.
If the journey is not what you expected, do not be surprised.
Godfather has more eyes than a pineapple!
The gods have not made it easy to be a human being.
No they haven't. But I guess that's why it feels so goddamn wonderful to beat the odds.
🤖City of Joy Reddit Talks
City of Joy: A Film that Explores the Contradictions of Calcutta
Roland Joffe’s 1992 film, City of Joy, offers a complex and nuanced portrayal of Calcutta, a city known both for its vibrant culture and its extreme poverty. The film follows the experiences of Max Lowe, an American doctor who travels to Calcutta to volunteer at a clinic in the slums. Max’s idealism is quickly challenged by the harsh realities of life in the slums, and he struggles to reconcile his desire to help with the overwhelming needs of the people he encounters.
Social Pornography
The film has been criticized by some for its portrayal of Calcutta as a place of poverty and despair. Critics argue that the film reinforces negative stereotypes about India and that it exploits the suffering of the people it depicts. Others, however, argue that the film is a powerful and unflinching look at the challenges faced by people living in poverty. They argue that the film does not shy away from the harsh realities of life in the slums, but rather presents them in a way that is both honest and compassionate.
Colonialist Mentality
Another criticism of the film is that it betrays a colonialist mentality. Critics argue that the film presents a Western perspective on Calcutta, and that it fails to give voice to the experiences of the people who live there. They argue that the film reinforces the idea that the West is superior to the East, and that it perpetuates the myth of the “white savior.”
A Complex and Nuanced Portrayal
Despite these criticisms, City of Joy remains a powerful and moving film. It is a film that captures the contradictions of Calcutta, a city that is both beautiful and heartbreaking. The film offers a complex and nuanced portrayal of the people who live in the slums, and it challenges viewers to confront their own prejudices and assumptions about poverty and suffering.
Additional Topics of Discussion:
- The role of Western aid in developing countries
- The challenges of working in a cross-cultural context
- The importance of cultural sensitivity
- The power of human connection
- The resilience of the human spirit
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Filmmakers/comments/3mv5sd/the_first_couple_minutes_of_the_city_of_joy_a/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/BollyBlindsNGossip/comments/q3ehkv/om_puri_shabana_azmi_and_patrick_swayze_on_the/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/kolkata/comments/yiypcm/kolkata_the_city_of_joy/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/ClassicDesiCelebs/comments/stsnrx/om_puri_shabana_azmi_and_patrick_swayze_during/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/imaginarymaps/comments/ick3yi/city_of_joy/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is City of Joy based on a true story?
The author has stated that the stories of the characters in the book are true and he uses many real names in his book. However, the book is considered fictional since many conversations and actions are assumed or created.
What is the plot of City of Joy?
Hazari Pal is a rural farmer who moves to Calcutta with his wife Kamla and three children in search of a better life. The Pals do not get off to a good start: they are cheated out of their rent money and thrown out on the streets, and it is difficult for Hazari to find a job to support them.
Why is Calcutta known as the City of Joy?
In the city of joy, people are very cultural and love to celebrate every festival with all pomp and show. Also, they follow each and every tradition. Durga Puja is their main festival, which calls for far too traditional celebrations all over the city. One must get down to this city to feel real pleasure and joy.
What is the theme of City of Joy?
A story about the profound resilience of the human spirit, CITY OF JOY witnesses Congolese women’s fierce will to reclaim hope, even when so much of what was meaningful to them has been stripped away.
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