Movie Review: The Guru

Story: I was looking for a film that might provide a few laughs in these troubled times of color terror alerts and the uses of duct tape to guard against attacks (don't get me started on this issue). The Guru tried desperately to provide this relief but sadly, fell very short.

Young Ramu Gupta leaves India and heads to NYC to become a big movie star like his idol, John Travolta in his Grease days. Through a few comic (or should I say Karmic) twists, he instead gets involved in the porn industry. Shortly thereafter he comically gets a Guru gig as a sage who dispenses enlightenment by giving erotic words of wisdom. These parts of the film are some of the funniest as is the take off on some of those wonderful song and dance numbers that are seen in movies that emanate out of India, also known as Bollywood. The number where the guru offers the macarena as a series of tantric positions cracked me up.

Acting: Jimi Mistry as Ramu was adorable. He is actually from England has a very charming personality and I hope to see him again, soon. Heather Graham, as the lov' interest satirizes her roll in Boogie Nights pretty effectively. Marisa Tomei was poorly cast as the adoring subject of the guru. There are some supporting characters who hit their roles perfectly. I particularly enjoyed Michael McKean as the porn director.

Predilection: I like all things Indian.

Critters: Two beautifully painted Indian elephants.

Food: Tikki Masala Chicken, Tandoori Chicken, lamb stew and beer.

Visual Art: Some bad modern art.

Blatant Product Placement: Budweiser beer, Penthouse Magazine, Pepsi.

Soundtrack: Hysterically appropriate.

Opening Titles: Funny

Theater Audience: About twenty late afternoon film go-ers in need of a few chuckles. A number of the middle aged men had long, gray pony tails. I don't know what this means but I did notice it.

Sappy Factor: 4

Quirky Meter: 3

Predictability Level: Over the top.

Oscar Worthy: No.

Nit Picking: There could have been many more moments of satire that would have transformed this film into a big cult hit.

Big Screen or Rental: Rental for sure -- better yet, wait for free TV. Heather Graham has been in a lot of bad movies, however, two good rentals where she can be seen are Bowfinge' and Boogie Nights.

Length: 90 minutes.

LOBO HOWLS: 5