More Than Masala: Indian Food and Culture Through Film
Warm, affectionate, and sweet, The Lunchbox is a clever crowd-pleaser starring cinematic treasure Irrfan Khan. Q&A to follow.
The Lunchbox explores an unusual connection between Ila, a neglected housewife, and Saajan, a lonely widower nearing retirement. Due to a rare glitch in Mumbai’s massive tiffin delivery system, the lunchbox meant for Ila’s husband mistakenly reaches Saajan, and an unexpected friendship blossoms. As their bond deepens, they share their innermost thoughts and dreams, leading to a poignant exploration of love and loneliness. The film received dozens of nominations and several wins at Indian and international film festivals like the Cannes Film Festival and the Toronto International Film Festival. [104 min; drama, romance; Hindi with English subtitles]
Q&A to follow with Pravina Shukla (Provost Professor and Chair, Folklore and Ethnomusicology; Director, Folklore Institute) and Pedro Machado (Associate Professor, Dept. of History; Director, Dhar India Studies Program).
"A fantastic fusion of the culinary and epistolary, The Lunchbox is a reminder to us that love assumes many forms, and can be expressed in many ways." — Joe Muldoon, Battle Royale With Cheese
"A tale of love, loss and longing—simply beautiful." — Charlotte Harrison, Charlotte Sometimes Goes to the Movies
"Ritesh Batra's debut feature reinvents the charms of old-fashioned romantic cinema for adults." — David Lamble, Bay Area Reporter
Devices for those who are visually impaired are available for this screening. To request one, please speak to our front-of-house staff in the lobby once you arrive at the Cinema.
Any film screened at IU Cinema may contain content that viewers find sensitive or upsetting. Visit our Audience Advisories page to learn more.
