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Blinded by the Light ... You can be Born in the USA anywhere

Blinded by the Light is a heart warming film based on a true story that is about strife, politics, and the incredible Bruce Springsteen. The movie stars Viveik Kalra who plays the tortured, young high school student Javed. In my opinion he nails the role from the way he moves to express how the music makes him feel, to how he expresses the emotions of his character. Viveik is supported by Nell Williams and Aaron Phagura, who both do well in their respective roles as friends of Viveik that serve as his escape from the pressures of his family. The movie plays with a lot of hard hitting themes of racism, familial obligation, and cultural differences. It demonstrates just how hard life can be for people who might stand out, especially in 1987’s Britain which is the year that the movie takes place. Bigotry and expectations weigh heavily on our young protagonists mind, but the movie really starts when he discovers the music of the one an only Bruce Springsteen. Although this movie heavily relies on the music, often having segments of just the music playing with occasional lyrics on the screen, it’s not what carries the film. The film is carried by the emotional journey of Viveik’s character Javed, which I believe is something everyone can relate to. There is one scene in particular towards the end that really hits home what music can mean for someone, and I know I’ve spent hours listening to the same music just engrossed by the feelings it could bring out in me. This is a movie that is about family, friends, and how both of them play into ones life. However, it is important to note that this isn’t a movie about Bruce Springsteen’s music because I found that the film would use the same songs over and again without a great amount of variety. This is a movie that is about how an artist can speak to someone and change the way they live their lives. I would recommend this movie if you know what it’s like to feel like the world’s against you or just want to see an uplifting true story.

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