The real star of this film is the crowded, neon-lit byways of the city itself.
80
Chicago ReaderTed Shen
Chicago ReaderTed Shen
The film is unsparingly gritty, but with a woman's tenderness it also grants the characters an occasional moment of grace.
75
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
The story sometimes seems hesitant to confront the most harrowing implications of the harsh realities it portrays. But it benefits greatly from Syed's close-to-the-bone performance as the boy.
60
Variety
Variety
Director Mira Nair indulges in some melodramatic explorations, however, dangerously verging on a romanticized Oriental tearjerker mood.