Synopsis

World Cup fever in Korea has not only taken its people by surprise but it has caught the attention of the global community. And it's only natural for art to imitate life. But this year's Opening Film is not really a movie about professional soccer or soccer fans in overdrive. Jess is no different from any other 18 year-old British teenager except for her dream to "bend" a soccer ball like David Beckham. But her tradition-loving Indian parents will have none of it. They'd much prefer for their young daughter to learn cooking and thus be one step closer to becoming a good wife and mother. Jess' only consolation is show-casing her athletic prowess in the park with her friends. Then one day she meets Jules who convinces her to join the Hounslow Harriers women's soccer team and her life takes a drastic turn. But even the life she'd always dreamed of is not without its complications... Audiences may be familiar with director Gurinder Chadha's previous film which was invited to PiFan2000. Those who appreciated her deftly crafted story of four different families on Thanksgiving will no doubt enjoy , a story about culture clashes, generation gaps, love and some incredible footwork. This year's focus for PiFan2002 is on unity. Bringing together filmgoers of all ages and preferences in one place to enjoy what is a true feel-good movie. (Cassie Yoo)

Diretor

Gurinder Chadha

Her debut film < Bhaji on the Beach > won the Prize of Ecumenical Jury and Audience Prize in the Locarno International Film Festival. Her next film < What’s Cooking? > was screened at the 4th PiFan, and < Bend It Like Beckham > is her 3rd film