This month, we have a guest review from Arhaan Babar Ray.  Some of you may know him from the book club. 

Masala Shakespeare, written by Jonathan Gill Harris, and published by Aleph, brings together the ingredients of music, cinema, masti (fun) and pluralism, to concoct an interesting memoir-like piece, delving into how Jonathan Gill Harris himself became a lover of Indian Cinema. The book explores the connection between Shakespeare and Modern Indian Cinema, namely how both once served as a common entertainment for all members of society, bringing together a nation/community.

He does this through 5 Acts (just like a Shakespearean play!), with their scenes, each adding a layer of analysis.  Harris also makes known his disdain for the multiplex-ization and the commercialization of Indian Cinema today, and his longing for the golden age of Indian Cinema. Overall, this book made me appreciate the masala of films, as I have always looked at films through the lens of a boring critic. The novel has made me understand the value of the cringe of certain songs and the feel of a screaming, dancing theatre. Read this book.

(PS, Jonathan Gill Harris is an extremely cool guy. Not only because he ‘hearted’ the reel I made on the book, but also because he does cool work!)