Hamid Shaikh stars in Prashant Bhargava’s Patang. Courtesy of Khushi Films.

Prashant Bhargava‘s “Patang,” (a.k.a. “The Kite”) was a film I greatly admired upon first glance. I had just finished defending Terrence Malick’s “The Tree of Life” at every holiday gathering of my friends and extended family, and was eager to embrace the work of filmmakers who specialized in visual poetry. Yet despite the curiously divisive reactions it received from critics, Bhargava’s film is more accessible than anything made by Malick. It’s a potent yet understated family drama set during India’s iconic kite festival, which unites the divided people of Ahmedabad beneath an awe-inspiring canopy of colors.

I reviewed the film prior to its limited run at the AMC River East 21 and also had the pleasure of interviewing the director. When Bhargava later approached me and asked if I would be interested in conducting post-film Q&As during “Patang”‘s opening weekend at Facets, I was beyond thrilled. I’ll be hosting the 7pm screenings on Saturday, August 25th and Sunday, August 26th. If you are a Chicago cinephile, I highly recommend that you attend this event and come say hello. “Patang” is one of the year’s best films, and it’s best seen on the biggest screen possible.