Review: Bollywood meets Canada in uneven rom-com ‘Dr. Cabbie’

Posted on December 12, 2014

By MARK VIOLA

Bollywood, for those who don’t what that means, refers to one of the largest film producing locales in the world, centered around Mumbai, India. Like movies made in Hollywood, they vary greatly by genre and style, depending on the director involved, but common themes are vibrant colors and elaborately choreographed dance numbers.

I hadn’t actually seen a Bollywood movie before “Dr. Cabbie,” which was co-produced by several Canadian companies and is mostly set in that country. The film is directed by Canadian director Jean-François Pouliot (“Seducing Doctor Lewis”) and produced by popular Bollywood actor and producer Salman Khan.

“Dr. Cabbie” is a romantic comedy about Deepak (Vinay Virmani, “Breakaway), an Indian doctor fresh from graduation who moves to Canada knowing the country has a vast shortage of doctors. Unfortunately, the establishment doesn’t accept his degree and lack of residency, leaving him unemployed and relying on the graciousness of his uncle. After a chance meeting with Tony (Kunal Nayyar, “The Big Bang Theory”), a local cab driver, he ends up becoming a cabbie.

“Dr. Cabbie” has its moments, and while it doesn’t excel at the mission it sets out upon, it is an entertaining hour and 40 minutes. There are plenty of movies out there to choose from this time of year, but if you’re looking for something different, this is hardly your worst option.

The film is unrated, but I would guess would be a mid-level PG-13 film had it been a domestic release.

(This is a shortened version of the full review available in our printed or e-edition papers.)

Subscribe to our e-Edition and read the rest of the story. Already a subscriber? Click here to sign in.