Eat Pray Love – Philosophies and Personal Reflections? Not Really!

‘What’s a word that best describes me?’ is the question which is the theme of director Ryan Murphy’s film. The search for balance and identity is the story of Liz Gilbert (Julia Roberts) who is a writer, going about the mundaties of an urbane life, unhappy in her marriage to Stephen (Billy Cudrup) and has along the way lost the will to feel alive and passionate about anything.

Love in Bali

She enters another relationship with a stage actor and still doesn’t find what she’s looking for. So Liz heads out on a journey across Italy, India and Bali quite literally to Eat, Pray and Love! Somewhat of a drab, this film has a strong storyline but does not quite make you smile or think, just possibly shrug with exasperation!  I’m reminded of a film called ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ which showcases the same message of self discovery in a more enjoyable, folk stylish and philosophical way. The initial part lags on and there is no real meaning across her trips.  

India is portrayed through a biased view and highlights a stupidity reflected through an old world image of India, especially with the elephant walking up to her in the middle of the city, dirty Thumps Up bottles and mosquitoes (Is didn’t like that portrayal). From purchasing a lavender satin nightie for herself in Italy and enjoying pasta with friends, to sporting the meditative Osho look in India with jholas, Fab India pants, rudraksh malas (beads) to Indian silk drabby saris (looking like a NGO worker uuggh) to finally strappy spaghettis’ and straw hats in Bali - the styling like the film follows no real effort highlighting a casual local lazy flavour. Compare it to Julia’s usual classy look with her spunky hairstyles in real life opposed to this sad reel, where you may just see hints of a well fit cardigan, a tiny diamond bindi and subtle makeup.

 

The Balance lies Within.

The finality to the cringe fest is watching an over aged yet hammed up Javier Bardem trying to be a sexy happily ever after prince when he just looks drugged out and botoxed in the process. On the whole Eat, Pray and Love at home, totally not worth a watch except to scoff at! With all India has to offer as a film destination they could have at least made her wear some bangles, payals (anklets) or even a nice dupatta (scarf) instead of the sad Indian silk that too with a bun!

My Rating: 1/5
By: Lily Shroff