Being a fan of Chadha’s previous offerings (Bhaji on the Beach, Bend It Like Beckham), I thought it nice, relaxed way to start my Sunday as it was to be a jam-packed schedule for me. I was intrigued to say the least, as a lot of her work has been associated with diaspora. I took my time strolling up to the Film & Music Arena and was taken aback by the excitable queue that had formed, young girls and their mothers, awaiting eagerly to be let in. Slipping in a side door (with permission, of course!) I witnessed a scramble in search of a decent place to watch from.   

Alan Davies kicks things off with an introduction, the film immediately sees an instantaneous, positive reaction from the audience who whoop in delight. Without giving much away, Angus, Thongs & Perfect Snogging revolves around today’s youth, a British take on the American high school movie, focussing on the trials and tribulations of protagonist Georgia as she deals with the various situations she finds herself in. The film is well received with smiles and applause all round as it draws to a close.

Appreciation doesn’t wane as few choose to leave after the film as young and younger (I shall refrain from using ‘old’) continue to wait for the appearance for Gurinder Chadha and the Q&A session. The Q&A was conducted by Alan Davies, who, in his charming manner, wittily probes and is able to provide a better insight to the workings of this director. Interspersed with clips from Chadha’s other works, she aptly explains her reasons for the various decisions made in the film making process. The session is informative and entertaining, Chadha remaining to take pictures and to converse with her young fans. 


Aysha Hussain