Heaven on Earth (2008 film)

Heaven on Earth is a 2008 Canadian drama film directed by Deepa Mehta. The film stars Preity Zinta as Chand, a young Indian woman who immigrates to Canada after an arranged marriage to Rocky (Vansh Bhardwaj).

The film explores themes of cultural displacement, domestic abuse, and the immigrant experience. Chand, initially hopeful about her new life, finds herself isolated and trapped in an unhappy marriage in Brampton, Ontario. Rocky's initially loving demeanor gradually transforms into controlling and abusive behavior, fueled by his own insecurities and struggles adapting to Canadian society.

Chand seeks solace and escape through supernatural beliefs and folklore, including the legend of the snake that brings either good fortune or devastation, depending on how it is treated. She tries various remedies and rituals to improve her situation, but her efforts are largely unsuccessful.

The film portrays the challenges faced by many immigrant women who come to Canada with dreams of a better life, only to find themselves facing isolation, abuse, and cultural barriers. It highlights the importance of community support and the difficulty of leaving an abusive relationship, especially when complicated by cultural expectations and immigration status.

Heaven on Earth premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2008 and received generally positive reviews, with particular praise for Zinta's performance.