What’s Love Got To Do With It (Netflix)? Decoding the Charming Rom-Com

What’s Love Got to Do with It?, currently available on Netflix in select regions, is a delightful cross-cultural romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love, relationships, and tradition in the modern world. It challenges the notion of arranged marriages versus love marriages by following Zoe (Lily James), a documentary filmmaker, as she chronicles the assisted marriage journey of her childhood friend, Kazim (Shazad Latif).

Delving into the Heart of the Film

The film isn’t just a simple “will they, won’t they” romance. It’s a sophisticated examination of different approaches to finding love and happiness. Zoe, a serial dater struggling with commitment and disheartened by dating apps, is initially skeptical of Kazim’s decision to follow a traditional, assisted marriage route facilitated by his parents. She sees it as archaic, contrasting sharply with her own chaotic and often unsatisfying romantic experiences.

Kazim, a British Pakistani doctor, believes in the wisdom of his parents and trusts their ability to find him a compatible life partner. He views assisted marriage not as a forced union, but as a conscious and intentional decision rooted in shared values, cultural understanding, and familial support. His journey involves carefully curated meetings with potential wives, guided by the experience and intuition of his family.

As Zoe films Kazim’s journey, she begins to question her own preconceived notions about love and marriage. She witnesses the deep respect and love within Kazim’s family, and she starts to see the potential benefits of a more structured and considered approach to finding a partner. The film subtly challenges the Western ideal of romantic love, suggesting that love can grow and deepen over time, nurtured by shared values and a commitment to building a life together.

The film masterfully balances the humor and heart of a classic rom-com with a genuine exploration of cultural differences and the ever-evolving landscape of relationships. It asks the audience to consider: Is there a “right” way to find love? Or is it more about finding what works for each individual within their own cultural context and personal values?

Furthermore, the movie skillfully uses the documentary film concept to explore these themes. The use of voiceovers, interviews, and candid shots enhances the storytelling, allowing the viewer to truly engage with the characters’ thoughts and experiences. We see Zoe’s growing fascination and gradual shift in perspective, which mirrors the journey the audience undertakes.

Why This Rom-Com Resonates

The film’s appeal lies in its relatability. Whether you’re a believer in fate, destiny, meticulously planned partnerships, or anything in between, “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” offers food for thought. It subtly addresses the pressure to find “the one,” the anxieties surrounding modern dating, and the universal desire for connection and companionship. It doesn’t preach or judge, but simply presents different perspectives with empathy and humor. The film’s strength is its ability to make viewers reconsider their assumptions about love and relationships while providing a genuinely enjoyable cinematic experience. It’s a film that stays with you, prompting conversations long after the credits roll.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the nuances and charm of this engaging film:

1. Is “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” based on a true story?

While not directly based on a single individual’s life, the film draws inspiration from real-life experiences and cultural practices surrounding assisted marriage within British Pakistani communities. Screenwriter Jemima Khan, who is known for her understanding of South Asian cultures, used her own observations and research to craft a story that feels authentic and relatable.

2. What is the difference between arranged marriage and assisted marriage?

The film specifically portrays assisted marriage, which is different from arranged marriage. In arranged marriages, the individuals have little to no say in the selection of their partner. In assisted marriages, as depicted in the movie, the individuals have the final say and can choose to decline a proposed match. It’s more about having family support and guidance in finding a partner based on shared values and cultural compatibility.

3. Where was “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” filmed?

The film was primarily shot in London, England, and Lahore, Pakistan. These locations play a crucial role in showcasing the contrasting cultural landscapes that influence the characters’ perspectives on love and marriage.

4. What are some of the key themes explored in the movie?

Key themes include:

• The clash between tradition and modernity
• The different approaches to finding love (assisted vs. love marriage)
• The importance of family and cultural values
• The complexities of cross-cultural relationships
• Challenging preconceived notions about love and marriage

5. Who are the main actors in “What’s Love Got to Do with It?”

The film stars Lily James as Zoe, a documentary filmmaker, and Shazad Latif as Kazim, the man embarking on an assisted marriage journey. Other notable cast members include Emma Thompson as Zoe’s eccentric mother, Cath, and Shabana Azmi as Aisha Khan, Kazim’s mother.

6. Is “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” a feel-good movie?

Yes, despite tackling complex themes, the film is ultimately a feel-good movie. It’s filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and a message of hope about the possibility of finding love in unexpected ways.

7. Does the movie portray Islam positively?

The movie depicts a nuanced and positive portrayal of a Muslim family practicing their faith. It showcases the values of family, respect, and community within the culture. It’s important to note that the film isn’t meant to be a representation of all Muslims, but rather a specific portrayal of one British Pakistani family.

8. What makes the soundtrack of “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” special?

The soundtrack blends Western pop music with South Asian sounds, reflecting the film’s cross-cultural theme. It includes original songs and covers that perfectly complement the film’s emotional beats and cultural context. The title track is a reimagining of Tina Turner’s classic hit.

9. How does the film address stereotypes about arranged marriages?

The film directly challenges negative stereotypes associated with arranged marriages by showcasing the agency and choice involved in the assisted marriage process. It highlights the emphasis on compatibility, shared values, and familial support, rather than forced unions.

10. Does the film have a predictable ending?

While it is a romantic comedy, “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” offers a satisfying yet slightly unconventional ending. It avoids the typical rom-com tropes and allows the characters to make choices that feel true to their individual journeys.

11. What is the overall message of the movie?

The movie’s overarching message is that there is no single “right” way to find love. What matters most is finding a connection that is authentic, fulfilling, and rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and shared values, regardless of whether it originates from a dating app or an assisted marriage process.

12. Is “What’s Love Got to Do with It?” worth watching?

Absolutely! It’s a charming, thought-provoking, and entertaining film that offers a fresh perspective on love, relationships, and cultural traditions. It’s a must-watch for fans of romantic comedies and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of cross-cultural relationships. The acting is stellar, the script is witty, and the film leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and plenty to ponder. So, go ahead and add it to your Netflix watchlist—you won’t regret it!