Ratings

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IMDb rating 7.5
Critic rating Average critic rating
Critic rating 7

Reviews

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Critic Anna Smith
rated 6

The performances are enjoyable and Penn proves he can handle a serious lead role.

Read full review at Empire
Critic Roger Ebert
rated 8

The movie covers some 25 or 30 years, so it is episodic by nature. What holds it together are the subtle loving performances...

Read full review at Roger Ebert

Cast & Crew

Mira Nair
Director
Kharaj Mukherjee
As Chhotoo
Irrfan Khan
As Ashoke Ganguli
Tabu
As Ashima Ganguli
Sabyasachi Chakraborty
As Ashima's Father
Glenne Headly
As Lydia
Kal Penn
As Gogol / Nikhil

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Namesake about? Toggle content

A first-generation American teenager must navigate between his Bengali roots and his American upbringing as he comes of age in New York City. His parents, who moved from Calcutta to New York shortly after their arranged marriage, struggle to hold onto their traditional ways while their children embrace modern American culture. As the family's identities are shaped by their cross-cultural experiences, they must find a balance between honoring their heritage and embracing their new life in America. Along the way, they encounter a range of comedic and poignant situations that challenge their relationships and sense of identity.

Where can I stream The Namesake? Toggle content

You can stream The Namesake on:

What movies are similar to The Namesake? Toggle content

Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as The Namesake include The Ron Clark Story, The Hours, The Help, Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story, My Sister's Keeper, Moneyball.

When was The Namesake released in theaters? Toggle content

The Namesake was released in theaters on September 2, 2006.