10th December 2023, Mumbai: Zoya Akhtar’s highly anticipated return to the Riverdale universe, “The Archies,” is met with disappointment as it struggles to break free from the predictable love triangle dominating its narrative. Despite an ensemble cast of fresh faces, the film succumbs to the nepotism debate, with three specific members taking center stage, leaving Reggie and Dilton in the shadows.
The Bland Narrative and Nepotism Problem
As the glossy, sugar-coated film unfolds, it becomes apparent that The Archies relies heavily on the love triangle involving Archie, Veronica, and Betty, played by star kids making their screen debuts. The storytelling disappoints, and the film’s conscious focus on a select few members amplifies the industry’s nepotism issue. Amidst this, Reggie and Dilton are criminally underutilized, hinting at a missed opportunity for a more diverse and engaging narrative.
Reggie and Dilton’s Arc Demands Attention
While the film fixates on the central trio, the other members of The Archies, including Jughead, Ethel, Reggie, and Dilton, play mere supporting roles. The standout, however, is the overlooked dynamic between Reggie and Dilton, briefly explored in a scene that reveals the depth of their friendship. This untouched storyline begs for more exploration and suggests that a spin-off focused on these characters could bring a refreshing perspective to the Riverdale universe.
Unfulfilled Potential and the Lack of Musical Zest
Despite the potential for compelling storylines, The Archies falls short in exploring characters beyond the love triangle. The film’s overemphasis on unnecessary songs contributes to the disappointment, as other characters remain in the background. Reggie, in particular, hints at insecurities and complexities that are never fully addressed, leaving audiences craving a deeper exploration of his character.
A Missed Opportunity
Reggie Mantle, portrayed by Vedang Raina, delivers a noteworthy performance, offering glimpses into the character’s depth that the screenplay fails to fully embrace. The quiet heartache emanating from the Reggie-Dilton dynamic adds a layer of complexity that the film overlooks. A separate spin-off centered around Reggie and Dilton could have added the much-needed zest and texture to The Archies, transforming it from a forgettable love triangle to a nuanced exploration of friendship and identity.
In the end, The Archies misses the chance to elevate its narrative beyond the safe and agreeable, leaving fans yearning for a spin-off that rightfully places Reggie and Dilton at the forefront of the Riverdale universe.