You know that feeling when someone truly sees and hears you? It’s one of the most powerful emotions, and My Melbourne captures it beautifully for the Indian community living in Melbourne. This four-part anthology, directed by Imtiaz Ali, Onir, Kabir Khan, and Rima Das, explores themes of race, disability, sexuality, and gender—while remaining deeply emotional and engaging. Despite its cultural specificity, the film resonates universally, making it feel like a story for everyone. Each segment is crafted with empathy and care, whether it’s Sakshi’s fight for equality or Setara’s pursuit of her dreams.
Imtiaz Ali’s Jules ambitiously tackles multiple issues at once—navigating life as a person of color in a new country, challenging stereotypes about beggars, and examining power dynamics in relationships. With a fantastic guest appearance from Kat Stewart, the film weaves generations of social struggles into a single, compelling narrative.
Kabir Khan’s segment is quintessentially Kabir Khan—blending cricket, flashbacks, a tribute to Afghanistan, and emotionally charged dialogues. It carries his signature energy, delivering a powerful and satisfying conclusion that lingers long after the credits roll.
On the other hand, Rima Das and Onir’s films take a more indie, introspective approach. With minimal dialogue, extended silences, and visually rich storytelling, they evoke emotions that are hard to articulate yet deeply felt. Together, the four directors craft a well-balanced, visually stunning anthology.
For me, Nandini was the most moving. While many queer narratives focus on the struggle of coming out to conservative families, this film goes beyond that—exploring what happens when a queer Indian man in Melbourne reunites with his traditional father to perform a ritual for his late mother. It delves into grief, acceptance, and the evolving definition of family in a truly poignant way.
Melbourne itself plays a leading role in the film. From its stunning historical landmarks to the raw, everyday life of its suburbs, the city has never looked more cinematic.
Creating a film like this—melding four distinct stories into a cohesive whole while authentically portraying the immigrant experience—is no small feat. Over time, I’ve realized that cinema doesn’t always need to “make sense” in a conventional way. Sometimes, it simply sneaks up on you, leaving an impact you never expected. With its stellar cast, evocative music, and thoughtful direction, My Melbourne is a celebration of diversity and a remarkable achievement, it is a massive achievement for the filmmakers for crafting something so meaningful and powerful!
My Melbourne is in select cinemas from today
