Gandhi - B

On DVD (1982). Rated PG, 188(!) minutes.

Being relatively ignorant about Gandhi and out of respect for its 1982 win for Best Picture, I watched Gandhi, the movie starring Ben Kingsley (in a powerful performance).

This film is a sprawling epic that tracks Gandhi's adult life and struggle for human rights and the independence of India. He begins as a dapper English lawyer travelling in South Africa, and there he fights against apartheid. He then returns to India and adopts the 'diaper' look to show simple Indians that acceptance of the British way of life is not necessary for happiness. The remainder of the film shows his work with a group of Muslim and Hindu leaders to work against the colonial British government to obtain independence. Ultimately, the conclusion of World War II provides the necessary catalyst to produce such independence. The split of India (Muslims into Pakistan, Hindus remain in India) broke Gandhi's heart, and has ultimately led to instability in the world, even today. He is ultimately assassinated by a militant Hindu group for his continued fair treatment of Muslims.

I have to assume the facts as portrayed in the film are true; I don't have a deep base of knowledge about his life and travels. The power and impact of his method of non-violent civil disobedience is explored and (very) gently critiqued. The director (Richard Attenborough) presents an almost Messianic portrait of Gandhi, although he is shown throughout the film rejecting such notions.

The most interesting aspect of the film for me was the portrayal of Gandhi's shrewd use and partnership with the media to bring pressure upon the British to accomplish his goals. The best scenes are with Ian Charleson (Eric Liddell in Chariots of Fire). Their friendship and partnership in the cause is the most authentic and deeply played in the film. The worst scenes are with Candice Bergen. They were intended to provide an American summary for the film, but they are contrived and uninteresting.

Viewer note: My favorite actor, Daniel Day-Lewis, makes a 25 second appearance in what may have been his debut film as a prejudiced South African 'street tough.'