No one ever talks about older women’s sexuality. The subject can be considered sensitive and potentially taboo, as older women are often not portrayed as sexually active and desirable or seeking paid sex in popular culture. It is either a meaningless comedy where teenagers sexualise their friend's hot grandmother or nothing at all; the subject is less talked about and seldom explored with sincerity and thoughtfulness.
So what happens in 'Good Luck to You, Leo Grande' when a 55-year-old widow, Nancy, hires a young and handsome sex worker, Leo Grande, to explore her sexual desires and experience orgasm if at all possible?
Age, Sexuality and Religion
The movie introduces a retired teacher, Nancy, who, years after her husband's death, is seeking to explore her sexuality and desires. It offers an authentic and nuanced portrayal of her sexuality, which can challenge societal expectations and break down stereotypes about older women. The movie highlights the idea that sexual desire and pleasure are not limited by age and that people can continue to explore their sexuality throughout their lives.
For many religious people, there may be conflicting beliefs and attitudes around sexuality and desire, and this can create internal conflict and confusion. The fact that the main character, Nancy, is both a religious woman and someone who only slept with her husband adds another layer to the exploration of her sexuality. This aspect of the character's background highlights the challenges and tribulations that can arise when one's religious beliefs and sexual desires are at odds. Overall, the religious background of the main character in 'Good Luck to You, Leo Grande' adds a rich and intricate dimension to the exploration of her sexuality and desires and has the potential to spark pivotal conversations about the intersections of religion, sexuality, and desire.
Orgasm (finally) and Self-Acceptance
Nancy's husband never gave her an orgasm or helped her achieve it; she simply gave in to the monotony of missionary sex her entire married life. However, when she explored sexual escapades with Leo and finally expressed her wants which Leo successfully delivered, she was able to experience new and unique sensations and eventually gave herself an orgasm.
The theme of self-acceptance and body positivity is a critical one, particularly as people age and their bodies change. In the film, Nancy's journey towards self-acceptance and body positivity is shown through her confrontation with her naked reflection and eventual embrace of her body. It can be seen as a symbol of her newfound confidence and autonomy without fear of judgment or societal expectations. This theme can be seen as a powerful message to all individuals, regardless of age, to embrace and love their bodies. The idea that people can continue to feel pleasure and sexual desire as they grow old challenges societal norms and encourages individuals to prioritise their happiness and fulfilment.
Good Luck to You, Leo Grande in Bollywood
If 'Good Luck to You, Leo Grande' were to be remade in Bollywood, there would likely be some differences and new elements for Indian audiences. In Bollywood's version, the main character's journey to explore her sexuality and desires will most likely be framed in the context of her relationships with her family and community, and there will be a greater emphasis on the social and cultural norms that she is challenging.
We need to consider the cultural context and attitudes towards sexuality in India when reimagining this movie. Although mindsets are changing, there is still a significant degree of conservatism and stigma surrounding non-normative sexual expression, particularly for older women. A Bollywood retelling of 'Good Luck to You, Leo Grande' could challenge these attitudes and spark paramount conversations about sexuality and ageing in India.
Ratna Pathak Shah and Ayushman Khurana as Nancy and Leo Grande
If Bollywood does not half-ass the direction and the screenplay, then, holy shit, it would be something! And I can totally imagine Ratna Pathak Shah and Ayushmann Khurrana starring in the Bollywood remake. Ratna Pathak Shah, known for her assertive and nuanced performances, would bring depth and complexity to the role of the ageing woman finding her autonomy and accepting her passions. Her roles in the movies that came out in the last decade — Kapoor and Sons (2016), Nil Battey Sannata (2016) and Lipstick Under My Burkha (2017) — are more than enough to help visualise her playing Nancy in the Bollywood remake. Her presence would lend credibility and gravitas to the subject matter, and her ability to convey emotion would add an extra layer of intensity to the story. Ayushmann Khurrana, on the other hand, known for his charismatic and versatile performances, would bring fresh energy and appeal to a wider audience. Imagine Ayushmann from Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan (2020) or An Action Hero (2022) playing the role of an attractive and astute male sex worker. Ratna and Ayushmann's chemistry would bring a new dimension to the story, a rich and diverse tapestry of talent and performance.
In conclusion, well done to Sophie Hyde, the director, Emma Thompson and Daryl McCormack who played nancy and Leo, respectively, for making a fine drama on a rousing subject with sensitivity and subtlety. Hopefully, more of their works will fascinate us and continue poking the audiences to think, reflect and examine their presumptions and beliefs.
And considering Bollywood's history of making foul remakes and my desire to see Ratna Pathak Shah's portrayal of Emma Thompson's character, I wish and do not wish that 'Good Luck to You, Leo Grande' is remade, if that makes sense.