Review: 'Becoming' On Netflix Is Imperfectly Perfect & Just What You Need Being Isolated At Home

We can all use a little kindness and positivity in these times, isn't it? And if the current situation of lockdown is really getting to you and watching multiple shows and films has also reached its saturation point, what you need is a feel-good presentation where you don't have to necessarily be engrossed but still be involved.

The first actual outcome of the long-awaited partnership of The Obamas and Netflix finally came out in the form of the docufilm Becoming. The 90-minute film follows the former First Lady, Michelle Obama and her 34 city tour to promote and talk about her book, Becoming. Needless to say, it's much more than that.

Even though the filming is done throughout the period of Mrs. Obama touring in different cities, the film doesn't, for one moment feel like a propaganda of the same. One thing that is made sure is that there aren't any anti-Trump words or comments being said, used, or insinuated.

Becoming is as imperfectly perfect as you would ideally expect a docufilm to be. While it does introduce the viewers to some absolutely amazing and never-seen-before moments from Mrs. Obama's life, none of that is done to make you feel sorry for her. Yes. She had some saddening and heartbreaking moments in her life dealing with racism, sexism, and always assumed to not 'dream big' but they aren't conveyed to get you teary-eyed. On the contrary, they only give you one thing that the Obamas have always stood for - HOPE.

The most beautiful thing about the whole docufilm is the fact that it's humanized. It may sound weird to many as to what it means. In multiple films and shows of such figures, the idea is always to show perfection and can-do-no-wrong facet that they feel they have. However, that's never the case and Lady Obama is the perfect example of that. The fact that she spots humor in almost every difficult thing to do and her listening to hip-hop music and her occasional sass is just brilliant and makes you respect her all the more but still relate personally.

Another notable positive that the docufilm does is that it doesn't make everything about husband and former President of USA, Barrack Obama. Of course, he is the most important person in her life just like she is for him but the film is about Mrs. Obama and it makes sure even you don't forget it. The anecdotes of her life in the White House and watching her little girls (from the days of presidency) to now grown-up teenagers, you feel warmth, love, and genuine empathy for humankind.

There are subtle hints as to how tirelessly Lady Obama keeps working and doing so, she does it all with a smile but they aren't forced upon you to witness.

Becoming is the just the imperfectly perfect film for everyone to watch right now - not just to admire The Obamas all the more but learn so much about basic kindness in the lightest way possible.

Rating - ****1/2 (4.5/5)