The Pool (DVD)

WINNER OF THE 2007 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL SPECIAL DRAMATIC JURY PRIZE

THE POOL is the story of Venkatesh, a hotel worker in India, who sees from his perch in a mango tree a luxuriant garden and shimmering pool hidden behind a wall.

In making whatever efforts he can to better himself, Venkatesh offers his services to the wealthy owner of the home. Not content to simply dream about a different life, Venkatesh is inquisitive about the home's inhabitants — indeed, about the world around him — and his curiosity changes the shape of his future.

Working in Hindi with young actors and in a country not his own, director Chris Smith has nevertheless created a superbly incisive portrait that will move and delight you.