The Namesake (2006)

With films such as Bachelor Party and Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle under his belt, one would think Kal Penn was focused only on comedic acting. However, he gives a great performance as Gogol in the 2006 film, The Namesake. The Namesake is a film that deals with a family of first generation immigrants from India. The parents have come to America to make a better life, and their children, being born in America, act starkly different from how children in India would act. The parents must figure out how to deal with the culture gap between them and their children, all while struggling to fit in America themselves. Gogol, the son of Ashoke and Ashima, tragically begins to discover his connection with his parents' birth country after the death of his father.

Irrfan Khan's portrayal of Ashoke is heartfelt and pure. He gives the character a breath of life that lets the audience know what kind of person he is. He does not want to trouble his son with his own story, but it would mean a lot for him if Gogol did learn the significance of his name.

This film is great for viewing at any time in any company. It's not vulgar or graphic and yet deals with very mature themes., making it a suitable film for any adult.