American Hasi

"American Hasi" is a raw, heartfelt, and amusing 2019 documentary that follows the comedic journey of Tushar Singh, an Indian-American stand-up comedian, as he embarks on an astonishing trip that is both personal and professional. Providing a fascinating look into the world of cross-cultural comedy, this documentary is a hidden gem, which seamlessly blends elements of humor, real-life struggle, and honesty. By sharing Tushar Singh's one-of-a-kind comedic tour across India, "American Hasi" captivates its audience by broadening the horizons of stand-up comedy's realm, beyond the curtain and conventional stages.

At its core, "American Hasi" is about Tushar Singh's audacious and ambitious plan to perform stand-up comedy in India, a country where this medium of entertainment is still relatively nascent compared to the US. However, this plotline is merely the outer shell of a deeply engaging narrative that peels back numerous layers to expose not only the highs and lows of a comedian's life, but also the complex intricacies of being an Indian-American attempting to find his roots in his ancestral homeland.

Directed by Laura Asherman, this documentary's cinematic lens provides an authentic portrayal of Tushar's struggle to find acceptance and validation in the land of his parents. Asherman has done a phenomenal job in capturing Tushar's journey as he navigates foreign norms while understanding the impact of his heritage in crafting his comedy. Her artistic inspection of Tushar's life brings a personal touch to the film, making the audience feel as though they are part of Tushar's expedition.

Part travelogue, part confessional, and all-around hilarious, "American Hasi" depicts scenes that resonate in the psyche of the viewer. From stepping onto the stage to "kill it" in front of a crowd ready for laughter, to seeing Tushar interacting with locals and experiencing the exhilarating heartbeats of India's culture and traditions, the documentary never lets the audience's attention wane but keeps you hooked with its intriguing narrative and some genuinely funny segments.

Tushar Singh’s comedic persona is quirky, energetic, and marked by a particular vulnerability that many can relate to. His jokes, while often addressing the timely societal issues and the complexity of a dual cultural identity, entrance the viewers with their wit and his comedic delivery. His comedy is amplified by the distinct Indian context, where he explores themes of living as a minority in America, while trying to understand what being "Indian" means in India.

In addition to featuring on-stage performances, "American Hasi" also incorporates interviews with Tushar, his family, and fellow comedians. These segments provide valuable insight into the hustle and ever-present tension behind the scenes in a comedian's life. Tushar’s parents' perspectives, in particular, offer a heartwarming and at times nostalgic take on their son’s decision to not only embrace his cultural heritage but also use it as a pivotal part of his comedy.

Quite unlike the conventional comedy movies, "American Hasi" takes the audience on a riveting roller-coaster ride of emotions - providing the hilarious highs when Tushar sets the stage on fire with laughter and the deep lows when he struggles with cultural identity issues and disappointing performances. Asherman's knack for capturing these moments with a sensitive lens adds a depth of human experience to the documentary that enriches the viewing experience.

Offering an engaging narrative through its running time, "American Hasi" is a testament to the courage of a comedian who wears his identity on his sleeve and uses it as the very fabric of his comedy. Tushar’s journey resonates with anyone who has ever tried to understand their own identity, overcome societal expectations, or dared to follow a less-traveled path. And despite the challenges, the essence of hope and resilience beautifully puts the "Hasi" (laughter in Hindi) in "American Hasi".

"American Hasi" is not just a comedy documentary; it is a captivating exploration of identity, heritage, and how they intersect with the journey of a comedian. With its strong narrative and even stronger central character, this film ends up delivering more than just some good laughs - it delivers a story worth watching, a journey worth embarking on, and a man worth cheering for. It's a heartfelt narration of a determined artist defying norms, breaking boundaries, and shifting paradigms. If you are looking for a blend of personal exploration, cultural quest, and belly laughs, "American Hasi" is a must-watch.