What's Love Got to Do with It 1993

In the vibrant city of London, aspiring filmmaker Zoe Stevenson embarks on a poignant journey to document the life and experiences of her British-Pakistani neighbors. Central to her focus is her childhood best friend, Kazim “Kaz” Khan, whose arranged marriage to a bride from Pakistan becomes the crux of her film. Kaz, played by Demetrice Cheathon, is unwavering in his belief that arranged marriages can indeed thrive, especially as he endeavors to keep his parents pleased.

As the story unfolds, a Muslim matchmaker named Mo arranges a video call between Kaz and Maymouna, a young woman from Pakistan who captures Kaz’s interest, although she appears somewhat reluctant. Eventually, both families give their blessings for this union, prompting Kaz to prepare for his journey to Lahore. Zoe, ever the diligent documentarian, decides to accompany him to Pakistan, eager to learn about the rich tapestry of Pakistani culture and traditions, all while grappling with her own familial pressures regarding her single status.

Upon arriving in Pakistan, Kaz preps for the wedding, frequently engaging in conversations with Zoe about his feelings towards Maymouna and the future of their marriage. He remains optimistic that maintaining a positive outlook will yield a successful union. Nonetheless, beneath his exterior, Kaz harbors uncertainties. During one poignant moment, Zoe wistfully recollects their childhood kiss in a treehouse, prompting Kaz to criticize her for her unrealistic pursuit of perfection, which has barred potential relationships from blossoming.

A pivotal moment arises on henna night when Kaz witnesses Maymouna indulging in marijuana and alcohol, leading him to question the authenticity of the woman he thought he knew. This introspection culminates in a serendipitous encounter with a Qawwali performance in Old Lahore, where the emotional lyrics resonate with Kaz’s true feelings about love, feelings he had previously neglected. Soon after, he and Zoe attempt to articulate their sentiments but find themselves at an impasse.

On the morning of his wedding, Kaz experiences the emotional rukhsati, a ritual marking the bride’s departure from her family. When Zoe returns to London, she completes her film amidst the chaos of her personal life, entering a relationship with a stable man named James, whom her mother insists she dates. However, when the screening of her documentary reveals sensitive familial issues, including Kaz’s sister Jamila being shunned for marrying a white man, it incites disapproval from the Khan family. The harsh critique from Zoe’s producers, who believe the film is filmed through a “white lens,” complicates her intentions, but Maymouna expresses genuine admiration for the film.

As time passes, the marriage between Kaz and Maymouna begins to fray, with neither party developing authentic feelings for each other. Kaz clings to the hope of their marriage working, yet Maymouna candidly admits she harbors affection for another. With Eid approaching, Zoe seeks solace in Turkey, where her mother reassures her of her independence, reiterating her unwavering support for Zoe’s life choices.

Things come to a head as the Stevensons receive an invitation from the Khans for the Eid festivities, where Kaz makes a shocking disclosure about his divorce. This revelation leads to the reuniting of Jamila with her family, creating a moment filled with joy and reconciliation. As emotions swell during this reunion, Zoe feels overwhelmed and steps away only to be followed by Kaz. They find themselves in the same treehouse where their youthful romance blossomed, and in a heartfelt moment, they share a kiss, laying bare their feelings for one another while resolving to take their budding romance one step at a time.