Polite Society
Polite Society

Polite Society

2023Movie104 minEnglish

Martial artist-in-training Ria Khan believes she must save her older sister Lena from her impending marriage. After enlisting the help of her friends, Ria attempts to pull off the most ambitious of all wedding heists in the name of independence and sisterhood.

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Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes90%
Metacritic74/100
Google Users87%
Director: Nida ManzoorGenres: Action, Comedy, Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

Ria Khan believes that to save her older sister Lena from her impending marriage, she must master the art of the kung fu. She attempts to execute an elaborate and chaotic wedding heist, involving martial arts, explosions, and a formidable auntie. This bold plan puts her on a collision course with her family and tests the bonds of sisterhood.

Critical Reception

Polite Society received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its unique blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt family drama. Critics lauded its fresh voice, energetic direction, and standout performances, especially from lead Priya Kansara. The film was praised for its representation and its ability to balance high-octane sequences with genuine emotional depth.

What Reviewers Say

  • A vibrant and original action-comedy that expertly blends martial arts with a touching story of sisterhood.
  • Praised for its kinetic energy, witty dialogue, and strong performances, particularly from its young lead.
  • The film's bold vision and cultural specificity were highlighted as major strengths.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly enjoyed Polite Society, appreciating its unique genre mashup, energetic action sequences, and the relatable portrayal of family dynamics and sisterly bonds. Many found it funny, exciting, and refreshing.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Independent Film at the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA).

Fun Fact

Director Nida Manzoor drew inspiration for the film's unique blend of martial arts and family drama from her own experiences growing up in a British South Asian household and her love for action films.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I was really quite pleasantly surprised by this lively comedy that has as much to do with an episode of "Dr Who" as it does with the traditional family-based rom-com. "Lena" (Ritu Arya) falls hook line and sinker for the handsome (and wealt...
Manuel São Bento

Manuel São Bento

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://www.msbreviews.com/movie-reviews/polite-society-review-sundance-2023 "Polite Society looks straight out of a comic book. Endlessly energetic, witty humor, and packed with pretty great stunts. Nida Manzo...