Set in the mid-1970's, about the time when Pakistan was invading India, 'Such a Long Journey' maps out the plight of Gustad to keep his family going strong (he has a son that doesn't want to attend his father's choice in colleges, a wife that's entranced by the oblong medicinal advice of an elderly neighbor and a daughter that's come down with a case of malaria); his loyalties to an old friend (who is scamming a freedom fighting effort at Gustad's risk); and the various community colorfuls including a stuttering invalid that lives below Gustad; a spunky, philosophical painter that replaces urine stains on a wall with paintings from the various faiths and finally; the henchman of Gustad's old friend, a burly man played by Om Puri (whom you'll recall from 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom', of all places).

        This is a film that populates itself with characters who are willing to define themselves - which works beautifully in a film that is conservative, but doesn't lack flair. It's usual, but delightful. And of the Shooting Gallery Film Series entries I've seen, it's the most confident in it's editing, cinematography and it's writing. Seldom rough-edged and consistently entertaining, 'Such a Journey' is the kind of film you expect to be surprised by - - - and are.