Instructions
Carefully read the instructions and submit the assignment as a pdf or word doc attachment of 750-1000 words (Times New Roman, 12 pt). Refer to the citation guidelines provided under additional resources and cite all your references honestly (whether quoting directly or paraphrasing or using to build your own argument). The essay will be worth 100 points.
The final essay involves careful and close viewing of the film Bend it like Beckham that portrays the life of a Sikh family in London, in particular, the trajectory and travails of the younger daughter Jess Bhamra. Jess aspires to be a traditional football player while trying to reconcile traditional Sikh values and her family’s expectations to the path she has chosen. Her confidant (metaphorically and imaginatively) and sport idol is David Beckham.
Read Singh, Pashaura. “Sikh dharam.” In Religions of India, pp. 138-162. Routledge, 2017.
Watch the film Bend it Like Beckham(Directed by Gurinder Chadha, 2012). The film is available for rent on various platforms including Prime Video and also available for streaming on Disney Plus and Hulu.
Read May, Claudia. “What’s Love Got to Do with It?: (Un)Bending Identities and Conventions in Gurinda Chadha’s Bend It Like Beckham.” Culture and Religion 11, no. 3 (2010): 247–76. doi:10.1080/14755610.2010.505433.
While watching the film, make notes on the subtle as well as overt references to -religion in the film; -culture deriving from religious beliefs;- elements that you can relate to concepts studied in the course -for example sports as religion or devotion to a particular star (in this case sports star and the external and internal/mental manifestations of this devotion). Note the time stamps for each while you record your thoughts.
Think about the various layers this film unfolds and the major question you would like to deal with: Questions that begin with “how” and “why” are often better than questions that begin with “what” or “who.” For example regarding Sikhism, :”How do characters in the movie negotiate multiple identities while adhering to Sikh values?” This is just an example. You can decide on which layer or layers you want to focus on and craft a clear three page/ 750 word essay using the terms, typologies and readings from this module as well as the other course modules.
No outside research beyond what has been provided is necessary or expected. However if you do need to research Sikh history and religion or soccer, please refer to the ASU library database and use the scholarly articles that your search generates. Cite them adequately as noted above.
The use of AI is NOT recommended. Here is why:
I asked an AI engine how Sikhism was represented in Bend it Like Beckham. The response I got was:
In “Bend It Like Beckham,” religion plays a significant role, reflecting the cultural context and family dynamics of the characters. Let’s delve into how religion is portrayed in the film:
“ a. Sikhism Representation:
The film accurately represents Sikhismand the traditions and values of a Sikh family.
Jess’s family practices Sikhism, and we see glimpses of their religious life, including visits to the Gurudwara(Sikh temple) and adherence to Sikh customs.
Jess’s mother, Bhamra, is a traditional person who wants to preserve her family’s traditions and culture. Her faith in Guru Nanak’s portraitis a central aspect of her character.
Parental Expectations and Personal Aspirations:
Jess, the soccer-obsessed Punjabi daughter of immigrants, faces a conflict between her passion for soccer and her parents’ expectations.
While her parents would prefer her to pursue higher studies and domestic skills, Jess secretly plays soccer and dreams of training in the U.S.
The tension between personal aspirations and parental expectations is a central theme, highlighting the clash between tradition and modernity.
c.Breaking Stereotypes and Gender Roles:
The film challenges stereotypes associated with South Asian immigrants in Britain.
Jess defies societal norms by pursuing her soccer dreams, even when it conflicts with her sister’s wedding.
Bhamra’s emotional support for Jess’s ambitions is a powerful moment that breaks the stereotype of rigid and apathetic father figures.
d.Cultural Impact:
“Bend It Like Beckham” was a watershed momentfor British South Asians. It took them to the mainstream, beyond exclusive film festivals.
The film created a unique visual culture that moved away from Bollywood and explored the lives of South Asian immigrants in the U.K.
It resonated with viewers who saw their own lives reflected in the soccer-loving, Gurudwara-going, aloo-gobi-eating Jess.
Political and Social Context:
Today, “Bend It Like Beckham” is seen as a political film.
It represents people of color pursuing their passions and defying societal norms.
The film’s impact extends beyond entertainment, influencing discussions about representation and cultural identity.”
IF YOU READ THE ABOVE AI GENERATED CONTET CAREFULLY, THERE IS HARDLY ANY ELEMENT OF CRITICAL ANALYSIS PRESENT AND STATEMENTS ARE NOT BACKED UP BY SOLID EXAMPLES. I THEREFORE RECOMMEND YOU TRUST YOUR OWN SELF TO WRITE THIS ESSAY! USE OF AI MAY LEAD TO PLAGIARISM CHARGES AND POTENTIAL FAILURE.
8. Having composed your essay, please edit for typos and mistakes and upload as a pdf or word doc attachment.
9. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or the TA if you have any questions.
