Dustin Gandof
In Nida Manzoor’s World, Martial Arts and Jane Austen Belong in the Same Movie
When it comes to a movie, martial arts and Jane Austen may not seem like a natural fit, but in the hands of filmmaker Nida Manzoor, the two blend together seamlessly to create a unique and entertaining experience in “Polite Society.” As described in a recent article from The New York Times, Manzoor’s film is an “action caper” and “romance” all in one, featuring martial arts battles, secret lairs, and impossibly attractive characters.
At the heart of “Polite Society” is its focus on South Asian Muslim women, a perspective that is often underrepresented in mainstream media. Manzoor aimed to create a “joyful film” that celebrates this community, and in doing so, she has crafted a movie that is both empowering and entertaining.
One of the most interesting aspects of “Polite Society” is the way it blends disparate genres and styles. On the one hand, the film includes classic Austenian elements such as witty banter and romantic tension between the two leads. On the other hand, the movie also packs in plenty of action, with fight scenes and chase sequences that are sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Manzoor has described her approach to the film as “mashing up” different cultural motifs and influences, and the end result is a unique and exciting cinematic experience. By bringing martial arts and Jane Austen together, she has created something that feels fresh and new, yet also familiar and timeless.
Overall, “Polite Society” is a movie that defies easy categorization. It’s a romantic comedy, an action movie, a cultural celebration, and a feminist statement all rolled into one. With its diverse and talented cast, its blend of genres, and its unique perspective on Muslim women, Nida Manzoor’s film is sure to be one of the most talked-about movies of the year.
