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- Director: Gurinder Chadha
- Cast: Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, and Jonathan Rhys Meyers
- Domestic release: August 1, 2003
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Bend It Like Beckham is a 2002 British film about two girls who play soccer in an all-women league and dream of becoming professional soccer players; the title refers to professional soccer player David Beckham and his ability to spin the ball as he kicks it, giving a curve or bend to the path of its flight. One of the girls, Jesminder (played by Parminder Nagra) comes from a traditional Sikh family, whom would like her to behave more like a "proper" woman and find herself a good man to marry. Jules, played by Kiera Knightley, is her friend who is also on the team and develops a crush on their coach. Despite its sunny and light premise, the film deals with issues of cultural awareness and bigotry.
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Main Characters
- Jess: A young, somewhat impulsive girl who dreams of nothing but soccer, but is often thwarted by her traditional family who want her to behave more like a traditional woman. Played by Parminder Nagra.
- Jules: Jess's friend, she is generally good natured and supportive, but she and Jess have their problems in the film. Played by Kiera Knightley.
- Coach Joe: Injured from his playing days, Joe is a friendly yet often brooding person who takes his work very personally. Played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers
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Bend It Like Beckham Questions
Will David Beckham stay with AC Milan or come back to play with the LA Galaxy in time for the MLS season? 2 AnswersActually, I think it's a possibility that he'll stay in Italy. AC Milan is meeting with Beckham's manager in the next few days and if the team is willing to off... read more
How do I radically improve my football/soccer skills? 7 AnswersThe BBC has a good selection of tips and masterclass videos: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/skills/4187590.stm However, if you really want to improve ... read more
What is the best mind-bending picture you have seen? 11 AnswersAs a kid, I really loved the Chris van Allsberg books, especially "The Mysteries of Harris Burdick." It's just weird pictures and one line captions that inspir... read more
OPEN THREAD: Will Victoria Beckham be a better ''American Idol'' judge than Paula Abdul? 9 AnswersI'm sorry to say, probably yes. Victoria's much more likely to be snarky, and bring a little more heat to the show. Plus she's eye candy for the men (although ... read more