I Can't Think Straight (2008) User Reviews (34)

But some of my best friends are Lebanese!

[lastliberal · 7/10 · 14 March 2010]

The absolutely gorgeous Indian actress Lisa Ray (Vancouver critics named her Best Actress for Water) plays Tala, an upper class Jordanian of Palestinian origin, whose family lives in London, and who is about to get married.

She meets Leyla, played by Sheetal Sheth, the first Indian-American actress to appear in Maxim. She plays an Indian Muslim who also lives in London.

Clearly, the casting of the leads is meant to appeal to audiences that wouldn't normally watch a lesbian film, even one that is billed as a romantic comedy. They are both accomplished actresses, but they are also very attractive.

Not only do we get a film about becoming aware of one's sexual identity, but one about Arabs and Jews, Christians and Muslims, and, most importantly, family and acceptance.

Leyla tells her parents that she is gay. Her mother flips out, but her father is extremely supportive. Tala calls off, what is it her 5th, wedding, but does not immediately tell why. The family is used to her changing her mind at the last minute.

When she does, the maid (Nina Wadia) does a little dance, as the mother treats her so badly that she spits in her antacid when she brings it.

You knew how it was going to end, but the journey was a real pleasure.

It's PG-13, so there won't be any nudity, just kissing and touching.

Love story

[elisa-matteoni · 7/10 · 8 July 2014]

Unbelievable how a love story can intrigue so much. A tale about love, cheaters, envy and different cultures that give director Shamim Sharif's competitors a hard time. By the musics, costumes and make-up it is possible to go through the way of life of two young Middle Eastern women who decided to follow their real feeling in contempt of the consequencies of their actions and decisions. At the same time we can appreciate the unexpected open-minded behaviour of the characters in the movie. Both young and old people accept the condition of things and try to understand the passion that tie Tala and Leyla. A women love story.

Sweet film but glosses over some serious issues

[paoneillster · 6/10 · 12 February 2022]

This film is light hearted and visually appealing. Though the dialogue could have been better, it was a good attempt. Sadly, women from such cultures often pay a heavy price for being true to themselves. I didn't think the family's reactions were realistic. Some families disown their kids and even punish them with honor killings, even in the West.

Superb romantic movie!!

[galaxyx · 6 October 2011]

This is one of the best romantic movies I've ever watched. It's very entertaining, lovely and funny. The main actors are great. They have good chemistry on screen.

I've never really watched a lesbian movie (until I watched ICTS and TWU) because I always had a wrong notion about it. But after watching I Can't Think Straight, I fell in love with it. Well I guess it's not bad at all to watch a lesbian film even if you're not one! The movie tackles some issues on religious beliefs, different cultures, gender, political issues, and family traditions. But bottom line is, it's a story about two people of different backgrounds who fall in love.

What makes this movie very likable aside from the good acting is because the main actors, Lisa Ray and Sheetal Sheth are both very charming and feminine. So whether you're a guy or a girl, you will surely want to watch these 2 gorgeous actors on screen. Their love scenes are hot too! The music played on this movie is amazing!

This is a movie recommended mostly to open-minded people. But I would also recommend this to those who are "not so open-minded and unaccepting". Maybe watching this movie will change some of your wrong notions about people of the same sex falling in love, or maybe this will give you a better understanding about other people's feelings.

For me the movie is a bit short, only 80 minutes. But I would still give it a 10 for the ratings.

Superb romantic movie!!

Not bad

[w-08323 · 7/10 · 17 April 2020]

The Hong Kong translation of the film, "The Beautiful Girl Doesn't Come Straight" is more interesting, but it is a pity that the film is like a castle in the air.It is not very convincing that two rich Middle Eastern daughters who emigrated to Britain dare not come out of the closet despite their parents'opposition to religion, and that a Muslim who obeys his parents dares to come out of the closet.It was a short rhetorical question about religion that was interesting. The two heroines are the kind of beautiful Ji guy, at least pleasing to the eye.

A lighthearted movie with real substance

[DeciusCaius · 9/10 · 26 October 2008]

I recently saw this movie screened at USC. Since I was going for extra credit in a gender studies class, I expected it to be awful. I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised. The only issue I had with it was an awkward transition from Tala's engagement party to the first scene with Leyla. Overall, the movie was very entertaining, with well developed characters and plot, while at the same time dealing with the issues lesbians face in different cultures in a very effective manner. I strongly recommend this movie to anyone with an open mind and a sense of humor.

9/10.

OK story with a message that gets through, but terrible chemistry

[onebar22 · 6/10 · 23 May 2009]

This film has a story to tell, I just feel it's not told as completely as it could be. The coming out story and the events that follow from that moment are something you don't see in other coming out films - perhaps it's needed in this film because of the complexity of the cultural backgrounds of the two protagonists.

I like I Can't Think Straight for that exact reason, it goes further than most coming out stories, focusing on the two cultures and what Tala and Leyla go through both coming from such 'face' cultures.

I don't quite think it was the acting quality that lets this movie down, but the lack of chemistry between the actors. When one actor is on cue, the other in the scene is off, and so on.

I think it also could've been improved if it focused a little more on the political/cultural backgrounds of both. Unless you're familiar with such cultures and have grasp of the taboos you can't begin to understand why this is such a powerful coming out story.

A parade of impossibly beautiful women

[pinkybanana2000 · 5/10 · 11 January 2014]

The Netflix summary was promising. I stared at it on my queue for weeks before I took the plunge and watched it. I must say I was slightly disappointed.

More soap opera episode than substantive movie, this offering aims to tackle an important but taboo subject: homosexuality within two very conservative families, infused with a healthy dose of Middle East politics. As a vehicle for this critical message, it fails among the stunningly beautiful women (or people) and glitzy set. Both were a distraction. Even the help was made up of beautiful people.

There were also too many people and there was not enough character development to properly introduce you to each one. The actors weren't that good. None of them could summon the right emotion for the circumstances. They uttered their lines with the conviction of POWs.

As for the substance of the movie, it promised more than it delivered. We know that a wedding was called off because a bride later found out she was homosexual. We know that one of the women (which one???) later fell in love with another woman, only to end up with the first woman who introduced her to homosexuality. Nothing further is said about the second woman. If this sentence has you confused, you can see how I felt.

The only redeeming feature was the somewhat surprising outcome. Neither family freaked out.

Watch it for the eye candy.

Keep it in context

[indyscio · 8/10 · 29 March 2009]

This movie, if you have watched "The Making Of I Can't Think Straight," is autobiographical.

It is based upon a true story of Shamim Sarif's life, or at least a part of it.

In doing that, do you expect her to be politically correct or present it the way it was? I prefer the latter It's how it was for her and her partner, not how it should be in a perfect world. For a first time director, I think she did a good job. It's not a great movie, but it is entertaining. You can't deny the chemistry between the two main characters, either.

Reasonable

[lalalasimdbid · 6/10 · 1 February 2014]

Supprisingly reasonable dialogs and actions. Some views about religion or how you become a follow of one, were actually nice and not put to an extreme to create more Drama. Same goes for the reaction of the parents, after learning they daughter is gay. While both Mothers didn't like it, the Fathers were nice or supportive about it and no over dramatisation, dishonouring or kicking out of the family happened. Or threats about it.

While that made the movie more believable, I still couldn't connect as much to the characters as I'd like to. A lot of talking revolved about their cultures, so the love between Tala and Layla just didn't feel that strong.

Some parts also felt really disconnected, or might just be bad edited? Like the Tennis or Polo scenes. The cuts between the sport actions and the bystander watching, didn't feel like they were taken on the same event and just put together somehow.

Abysmal, superficial and superfluous piece of *%$#+@ (I mean, time waste)!

[Theodor16 · 1/10 · 16 April 2009]

I have one procedure with movies: they get 30 minutes of good will to prove that they are worth watching. With some films, when I'm not quite sure, this "probation" time is prolonged to 45 minutes.

So, I'll tell you what: "I Can't Think Straight" had me bored to tears in 20 minutes! The screenplay is dull and highly predictable, so don't expect any surprises. But it gets worse: the performance of the two main leads was gruesome. The question is not whether they should join acting classes - but whether they would be admitted.

What remains? Here are my recommendations: spend your time with something useful, maybe an evening walk with your partner in this early, mild spring, or watch an excellent lesbian movie like "Fingersmith", but not THIS movie.

A happy romance . . .

[opencad2 · 10/10 · 21 November 2008]

This is an interesting film from a variety of perspectives. It addresses sexuality as well as issues of middle eastern faith and culture. Light hearted though it is, it shows several cultures few have seen from the inside out. Modern Britain plays host to many cultures of middle eastern descent. And the stereotype of "angry fathers" and "downtrodden women" is a commonly repeated meme. This film shows strong women, compassionate men and loving families. Filmed in Britain, with very few imported actors, one sees a cross section of cultures working together to produce a good project. This is a great film to take almost anyone to.

nice concept, poor elaboration

[appelbanaananas · 4/10 · 10 September 2012]

MMm, what to say I did not enjoy this movie as much I thought I would. The plot seems interesting, an Arabian and an Indian Muslim girl falling in love, both very beautiful. However, the result is in my opinion a huge let-down. First of all, the acting OMG the acting is so bad maybe this is also due to the fact that the sound had to be dubbed (someone stole the sound recordings or something like that). The dubbing kind of gives the movie a cheap feel. Secondly, there is almost no development in the characters. they are so flat. Thirdly, there is no chemistry between the main female characters at all.

So, huge disappointment. Watch "kyss mig" much better and same kind of plot or even "imagine you and me"

A good representation of lesbianism in culture.

[kieranwy · 9/10 · 11 November 2008]

I enjoyed 'I Can't Think Straight' (which i think is a very clever title indeed given the content of the film). It raises the issue of lesbianism but in the context of Indian culture. Arranged marriages and a mother who is wanting to marry you off to the most suitable husband. Usually the man who comes from the most prestigious family, who is very successful, tall, very hansom, etc. All because the mother of the family wanting to marry off their daughter wants to gain some financial security and prestige for the family. (Or at least this is how it has been portrayed to me in the film). But what about if the daughter is gay? Much harder to imagine I feel, and 'I Can't Think Straight' portrays this matter very well. The movie is full of alluring cinematography and well constructed dialogue. Particularly I found, when the characters of Lisa Ray and Sheetal Sheth go for their ramble in the park. This is an especially elegant scene but the whole film screams decoration and harmony. The acting from the main characters is spot on and they must have received clear direction from Shamim Sarif. Some of the minor character's acting is quite poor and does not do justice to the script. but on the whole, it makes little difference to the story.

Are these women acting?

[benbree · 19 August 2011]

Wow! This is a great movie. I felt the actors were actually having this relationship. They dealt with conflict, misunderstanding, and love as if it was something they actually shared. While the premise was a lesbian relationship, this could happen to anyone.

Lisa Ray and Sheetal Sheth are also very attractive women. This physical attraction made me feel that this movie was more than a movie. I felt that perhaps the story shared on the screen was true. That is, it actually happened between these two women. I enjoyed this movie. I would watch any future films featuring either of these actors. I suggest folks seek movies with either of these performers.

Crappy!!

[riteron · 1/10 · 25 November 2009]

Having learnt of the author, I started reading her blogs which was very interesting. It got me thinking about wanting to read her books. But, me being me!! LAZY... decided to watch the film instead. And was I disappointed? And how. Well, there is nothing more to this film than what the posters have to offer. Sheer EYE CANDY. That is it!! My regards to the ever so beautiful Lisa Ray and also Sheetal Seth. An issue of being gay in sensitive religious families, as the director felt it should be portrayed seems to look very unimportant. The passionate scenes in the film, is far from being romantic. Expected a lot more romance from a director who is herself gay. Shamim, if you yourself do ever read this, do write to me and I will assist you in making better films.

my email id: [e-mail]

Awesome film!

[little_miss_dolphin8 · 10/10 · 27 May 2009]

Amazing. I loved it so much. The two main actresses were fantastic, very talented young women. The chemistry between the two of them was phenomenal. The suspense they created just held you right there, watching the film and unable to turn away. Moving from Jordan to England, the settings created a background to an incredibly unique film not only about coming out but also about religion, family and culture. It was pretty much just a wonderfully unique film, that gave an entirely new perspective on things and that should be applauded over and over again. The characters were hilarious- all of them. From the maid, to sisters to boyfriends and parents, all the characters complemented each other perfectly and the entire film had me laughing and crying the entire time. Absolutely fantastic!!

One of the worst films I've ever seen.

[samararara · 2/10 · 25 January 2017]

I've seen Despite the Falling Snow, which was okay, but I could not expect anything from the same director to be this bad.

No, really. Every cliché in the book.

People talking religion the first time they meet. A family forcing their daughter to marry a cokehead because he's from a good family. A mother telling her daughter "Why don't you make an Indian salad instead of a Greek salad? Why are you so ashamed of your own culture?" What the hell is that? Then there's another scene where the daughter buys Ethiopian bread, but the racist Indian mum says "We have Indian bread! This is Sparta! Tonight we dine in hell!" The last part is fake, but you get the point. The film shows Indians to be cultural supremacists, refusing to allow carbs from Ethiopia into their household. The mum insists that Ethiopians don't have bread, because they're starving in Ethiopia. Hate to break it to you, grandma, but people are starving in India too, as well as the UK, Kuwait, Mexico and New Zealand. They all have bread though.

Then the mum goes full racist, throwing a tantrum and screaming "Come and take this horrible bread and send it to Africa where it belongs."

I'm not denying that some Indians are racist, but if you have a racist mum who is racist about bread, the issue would come up way before you're in your mid- twenties and are weeks away from getting married. Usually this issue comes up the first time she sees you eating a pretzel or a bagel at 12. Not sudden mid-life anti-carb racism.

It just keeps going. Ridiculous wedding music. A man telling a woman to "cover her shoulders" - she's wearing a shoulderless dress. You saw her buy it, take it out, wear it. It's too late for shoulders now, mate. So he gives her some random scarf to wear. That makes no sense. He would've surely objected the moment he saw the dress, not 1 minute before the engagement party.

But we have men telling women they're indecent, and that's what counts. The father talks about the 6-Day War with Israel at the engagement party, because that's what Middle Easterners do all the time according to this director. Then it goes to Israel.

A scene where a servant spits in a coffee that she serves to the lady of the house, and she keeps trying to give it to the lady, who, just before taking a sip, asks a question about a cake, a dress, etc. This is repeated several times. This is not good enough for something like Friends, much less a film. You thought that was boring? It is repeated again with a glass of water less than 8 minutes later.

Someone says "She's had 4 fiances, you know" showing 4 fingers at the same time in case we don't understand.

Then the Muslim woman asks if her Arab friend will get married in a mosque. You can't get married in a mosque. It's a temple. Buddhists don't get married in a Buddhist temple. Then she's corrected "not all Arabs a Muslim" (this family is Christian), but then says "We're getting married in a Church." !! Arab Christians don't get married in church either, honey. Churches in the ME are temples - there's no bingo night or any of that stuff.

You can assume that someone unaware of Islamic culture could ask if someone would get married in a mosque, but in this film, the only ignorant person is the director. The person asking "Will you get married in a mosque?" is a Muslim herself, showing complete ignorance of her own religion.

Indians, Arabs, everyone speaks English at home because subtitles are too complicated for Sarif's target audience who want to look at pretty girls.

There's erotica, dancing, lesbians in bed, etc. Feminine-looking lesbians, if you were wondering.

Calling this a TV-film would be a compliment. It's more of an 80-minute soap.

I love watching it over and over again...

[ccidica · 10/10 · 20 July 2015]

This movie reminds me of how to be in love again. Not only because I am also a lesbian but the way the story was created, from beginning to end, I really feel the connection of the characters and the situation. Even though this film was created years ago, it can still be a useful tool to send out the message of the story today. I want to express my gratitude to the makers of this film for reminding me of how it feels again. Not all may understand the way it ends but everyone can relate why that is the ending. Though beliefs of different communities (gay, lesbians, or straight) may interfere on how they judge the movie, but this film shows a clear message of what is important for everyone. It's just so sad that not everyone gets to watch this film because I would absolutely recommend this to be shown around the world (excluding to the countries/communities against this belief).

Waste of a good story

[Sexy-scientist · 3/10 · 31 December 2014]

Only one thing which was right for this movie was its story. Except that, everything was crap. Terrible screenplay. It could have been much better in the same budget. Many scenes don't seem realistic to me, eg. Tala and Leyla first meeting scene, tennis court scene, and changing room scene after the tennis court one. Terrible acting, or I should say actors are not pushed enough making it to immature direction. They could have been asked to give a retake. Characters are not developed well. Viewer is not able to feel for the character. Music was crap. It was unable to present the emotion of the scenes. Background score is over dramatic. Editing is clumsy. Overall, it is better to skip it, not worth of your hour and a half.

Love this movie & book-funny, sweet & sexy chemistry!

[digitalbabeusa · 10/10 · 31 July 2009]

Director (Shamim Sarif Discussion Group-http://movies.groups.yahoo.com/group/shamim_sarif_fans/).

First, let me say that I first became familiar with Shamim Sarif's work, while visiting the Philadelphia Gay Film Festival over the last few years. This will be long, as I ABSOLUTELY LOVE both films, and can't recommend them enough for some humor, realistic drama and a journey beyond any existing borders of the mind.

My partner of 10 years and I have become life-long fans of Shamim's work, as this writer/director has captured our hearts and souls with relevant and poignant story lines that could serve as crossover projects for the mainstream media. I believe the latter is crucial in engaging America and the world in a dialogue of equality which transcends sexuality or gender.

***SPOILER ALERT***

I CAN'T THINK STRAIGHT- ===================== This has taken its spot among my favorite romantic comedies of all time. The soundtrack was up-tempo, fun and playful. The colors, costumes and set design where expertly integrated, and both this, and THE WORLD UNSEEN should be re-released on Blu-Ray. The look of both films is amazing and begs for hi-definition treatment.

This time Shamim Sarif uses humor effectively to shed light on the cultural taboo of being in a same sex relationship. She re-casts Lisa Ray as the confident, bold and seductive Tala, working on her own business, opposite Sheetal Sheth as Leila, the shy, beautiful and insightful writer, and object of Tala's affections.

Together they explore this very forbidden, but inevitable love, and find their way to each other, with each other's help. But on the way, they are aided by friends in very humorous situations, and hindered by family members, still loyal to reserved tradition. The soundtrack is virtually its own character, as it includes catchy and sexy songs ranging from ethnic to ballad, which compliment Tala and Leila's journey perfectly.

The cultural taboo of being in this relationship is a relatable conundrum that many same sex couples have faced, and despite this film's focus on Jordanian and Indian cultures, the overarching theme of being threatened, disowned and shunned by family is universal and sadly, very relevant. All of the characters are funny and charming, and the dialogue is hilarious and smart, but never preachy. I found it particularly interesting how the fathers in both THE WORLD UNSEEN and I CAN'T THINK STRAIGHT were overall very supportive-another rare depiction, given the theme and cultures depicted. ***SPOILER ALERT***

THE WORLD UNSEEN: ===================== For me, this film is a stunning, visual masterpiece, based on the book of the same name. The sweeping visual landscape, and texture and layers of the setting, costumes, characters and lifestyle are simply magnificent and breathtaking. The film also masterfully captures the inhumanity, humiliation, cruelty and robbing of dignity caused by the laws of the period.

It is a period piece, set in 1950's South Africa and tells the heartfelt and heart-breaking story of two women who find each other under during a chance encounter which awakens an emotional connection that ultimately unites them in heart, mind and soul. This occurs during a time period, where mixed race relationships are considered criminal, and the country has taken for granted that this should be acceptable. That is, except for those that characters that fight to revolt against this, and believe in equality.

This includes Amina, the rebellious, courageous character (Sheetal Sheth) who ultimately reminds Miriam (Lisa Ray)-an oppressed and abused housewife, who has lost herself and her interests, in her "role"- that she the latter has the strength to stand on her own and be who she wants to be-personally and professionally. Both Sheetal Sheth and Lisa Ray do an incredible job of conveying their individual plights on screen-sometimes with little spoken word and an artistic journey that entrenches you into their quiet pain, caused by the situation. Their scenes are some of the most skillful, yearning and heart-wrenching I have ever seen.

The story is told with such subtle and emotional complexity that I've rarely seen on film. Many feelings are conveyed with glances, the score itself, and unsaid words, which make this film incredibly powerful. Although the film leaves much implied, I was completely captivated by the power of the performances of the leads, as well as the supporting cast. I learned a great deal about the time period, as well as how much courage each character had to find within him/herself to ultimately emerge independent and dignified.

Amina is playful, bold, flirty and powerful and Miriam is reserved, curious and taken with Amina and all that she represents. There is passionate chemistry between the two female leads, who ultimately risk everything to grasp that which is most important-love for each other and for life and happiness. The film has an open end, but keen viewers can deduce the outcome and will remember this powerful story forever. This is the winner of numerous awards, including the official selection at the Toronto Film Festival & London Film Festival. Do not miss this film!

Again, Shamim Sarif achieves the kind of crossover appeal, whether intentional or not, that allows the universal themes of unstoppable love to trump the sometimes "hot button" issues of gender, political and sexual orientation components. Both leads and the entire supporting cast envelop us with hope, laughter and inspiration. These two films are truly must- sees and the behind the scenes extras on both DVD's are great additions.

Regardless of your sexual orientation, or interest in the genres, I highly recommend these 2 pieces as examples of genius book to film transitions and films that stand on their own (I've not read the books yet), that deliver a poignant message of hope, equality, inspiration and entertainment.

Stay updated on Shamim's work by joining her Facebook page.

Stay updated with Lisa Ray & Sheetal's Facebook pages (search for each).

Enjoy!

Gorgeous, funny and sexy.

[ninamarcelino · 9/10 · 12 May 2012]

I have always thought this movie would be funny and quirky, and it is. I loved the way they put comedic scenes in certain parts without being inappropriate. I loved it even more because in so many ways, I also find it extremely sexy (unlike the many other lesbian films that needed to show pure nudity). Although it might be one of the many I'm-gonna-marry-but-I- fell-in-love-with-another story, it hit off just right. 'Cause it did not just focus about that, but having to come up to your parents. It is about standing for who you are and for the one you love.

Such a good love movie.

A must-watch. Lisa (Tala) and Sheetal (Leyla) are both so bloody gorgeous I think I am a pebble - or less than.

one of nicest comedy ever!

[s-p-aulisa · 13 July 2014]

If you want to spend 90 minutes of enjoyable relax alone or with your friends, you should watch "I can't think straight", based on same name novel. It is the story of two women who, after they met, they understood much more about their selves. This is not only a love story, it is the story of two different cultures that blend and mix: Tala comes from Jordan and Leyla comes from Palestina, while magnificent London is the best background for this love affair. There is a strong recall to Bollywood cinematography (music, costumes, characters), as a sort of homage to director's biography. The story comes also along quite quickly, so you can't be bored. This is why there are a lot of romantic and passionate scenes, but also many funny situations which joke some Indian stereotypes.

Highly Enjoyable Love Story

[christianhh · 10/10 · 28 September 2012]

If this were simply a story about your average, every day, star crossed lovers, one might describe it as a "chick flick". It is a romance with some comedic elements, but I doubt it can honestly be called a "romantic comedy". Instead, it is a rather simple love story that, toward the end, threatens to leave the viewer hanging. The characterizations by the two lead actresses is stunning and highly believable. They do not play their roles over the top, but in a somewhat subdued manner that is consistent with the behavior of women from their respective cultures. Even so, Tala (played by Lisa Ray) is something of a maverick in her opinions, outlook and something of a problem for her family even before she meets Layla. I fell in love with both the characters early in the film and they took me on an enjoyable ride.

Really Amazing

[realisimone · 6 August 2015]

I can't think straight is an exciting comedy, telling the story of two girls in love. The movie is in each part unexpected and surprising. There are a lot of twists that leave the spectator astonished. The history of love telling about the 2 protagonists is romantic, sexy, and heart-warming, Is also very compelling and put the spectator in the shoes of the protagonist let him hope in an happy end. Lisa Ray is playing the part of the predator ( the opposite of the world Unseen) and I have to say that her interpretation is fantastic, and that the part she plays suit to her perfectly. Curious is the personal relationship between Tala and her parents, the mother plays the role of hypocrisy and selfishness thinking what is better for the image of the family whereas the father is more focused on daughter. The Role of Leyla is really curious too, Sheetal Sheth is perfectly representing her character. I suggest absolutely to see this film for have a relaxing and exciting break from the ordinary life.