Polite Society: Sisters' Saga of Dreams and Rebellion

In her wickedly funny and cinematically exuberant debut feature, "Polite Society," Nida Manzoor (creator of We Are Lady Parts) crafts an Austenesque tale with a loving, anarchic mashup of genres (action comedy, heist, martial arts, Bollywood, social horror). Centered on Ria Khan (Priya Kansara), a London schoolgirl and tireless martial-artist-in-training, the story revolves around her determination to become a world-renowned stunt woman and her struggle to save her sister Lena (Ritu Arya) from a hasty marriage to a wealthy suitor, Salim (Akshay Khanna).

The film showcases a forceful performance from newcomer Priya Kansara, whose energy is palpable throughout. The engaging plot, which navigates cultural norms, family dynamics, and personal aspirations, is peppered with clever repartee and colorful design, providing delightful moments for the audience. The relationship between Ria and Lena is the emotional backbone of the story, and Manzoor's direction captures the sisters' bond with tenderness and sincerity.

As the plot unfolds, Ria enlists her friends Clara (Seraphina Beh) and Alba (Ella Bruccoleri) to help rescue Lena from her impending marriage, believing something nefarious is afoot. The resulting misadventures take on a life of their own, blending genres and styles with ease, ensuring a consistently engaging experience for viewers. Nimra Bucha's portrayal of the controlling Raheela Shah, Salim's mother, is a standout performance that adds depth and intrigue to the film.

With "Polite Society," Manzoor exhibits an impressive ability to balance multiple genres and tones, creating a harmonious blend of action, comedy, and emotion. While the film's pacing may falter at times, its overall charm and humor remain intact, making it an enjoyable journey from beginning to end.

"Polite Society" is a delightful, genre-bending adventure that showcases the resilience of dreams, the strength of sisterly bonds, and the power of defying societal expectations. A triumphant action comedy brimming with delightful characters and heartfelt moments, this film is a testament to Nida Manzoor's creative prowess and a must-see cinematic experience.