With a name like Gogol Ganguli, living in trendy New York is no easy ride.

With responsibilities as a Bengali family member and mother alienated by her new life in America, it's hard for Gogol, named after the Russian author, growing up among all the Tom Dick and Harry Trueman Jrs.

Under the pressure to be the perfect child, but also a hard-partying teen, Nick -formally known as Gogol - gives into Uncle Sam's style of life.

Eventually detaching himself from his former colourful existence altogether, he embraces the American Way and treats his Bengali roots with light-hearted derision.

However, blood is thicker then water, and it takes his father's revelation about a massive tragedy in the past for Gogol to recover his pride and belief in his origins.

Wherever you hail from, this film will deeply touch all who have ever taken their family for granted.

It's a moving story of one man's struggle to find a perfect balance between two different worlds. A tear-jerking drama that is thankfully lightened with the odd giggle.

A bit long-winded and waffling at times, it plays about like a superior soap opera yet concludes as a worthwhile and uplifting watch.

For something different, get to the nearest big screen, grab the popcorn and a handful of tissues, and experience the clash of two cultures within one man.

Shona Williams