It’s always hard to translate a novel onto the big screen, but I believe Mira Nair did a suitable job. However, if you have not read the book, you may be missing integral parts of the portrayed culture and significance of some scenes.

I like how the movie concentrates on the mother as much as the main character, Gogol / Nikhil.

Beautiful book, beautiful movie. Loved the scenes of Calcutta, the Taj Mahal, and the relationship between Ashima and Ashoke, contrasted by the relationships of Gogol. It was also interesting to see Kal Penn in a serious role; the DVD also includes an interview with him from the Fox Channel.