Cast: Mihir Ahuja, Dot, Khushi Kapoor, Suhana Khan, Yuvraj Menda, Agastya Nanda, Vedang Raina
Director: Zoya Akhtar
Plot: Set in the 1960s, a musical drama based on Archie Comics that finds Indian actors taking on the beloved characters. An experience bursting with youth, rebellion, friendships, first loves, and everything young adult.
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review: Zoya Akhtar’s “The Archies” invites audiences to a cinematic journey back in time, immersing them in the vibrant world of a 1960s Anglo-Indian community. The film masterfully captures the essence of the era, blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary sensibilities to recreate the beloved comic-book characters.
Zoya Akhtar cleverly weaves contemporary themes of activism and coexistence into the narrative. The film addresses environmental conservation and minority rights, resonating with current socio-political sentiments. This departure from the classic tone of the comics adds depth to the storyline but might leave some longing for the signature humor of Archie’s world.
The movie’s visual appeal is a testament to the skillful cinematography of Nikos Andritsakis. His lens paints a vivid picture of Riverdale’s candy-colored paradise, skillfully balancing the idyllic outdoors with sun-kissed visuals and the sophisticated interiors that define Zoya Akhtar’s trademark sophistication.
Music
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s musical prowess adds a layer of infectious energy to “The Archies.” The upbeat soundtrack, complemented by Ankur Tewari and The Islanders and Aditi ‘Dot’ Saigal, elevates the narrative, infusing the film with the same lively spirit that made the comics a cherished part of many childhoods.
Newcomers’ Endeavors
The film introduces a fresh cast of newcomers, each striving to make the iconic characters their own. While Suhana Khan and Vedang Raina stand out as promising talents, the departure from certain character traits, such as Jughead’s transformation, may require some warming up for avid fans of the comics.
The film surprises with imaginative casting choices, including Kamal Sidhu as the slinky siren, Hermione Lodge. Such choices add a layer of freshness to the film and showcase the director’s creative vision in reimagining familiar characters.
What Doesn’t work
While The Archies successfully captures the nostalgia of the comics, it falls short in delivering the classic humor that endeared Archie and his gang to audiences. The film’s attempt to infuse a serious tone into the plot, addressing socio-political issues, may leave some fans longing for the light-hearted, carefree spirit that defined the original comic series. Additionally, some character depictions lack the depth and charisma that made the iconic characters so beloved, particularly in the case of a less charismatic Archie, missing the klutziness that added charm to his character in the comics. Despite the newcomers’ earnest efforts, there are moments when the film’s energy feels somewhat subdued, leaving some aspects of Riverdale’s magic feeling less vibrant than anticipated.
Direction
Zoya Akhtar’s directorial finesse shines through in the film’s underlying optimism, reflected in her poet father Javed Akhtar’s lyrics. The serene ballad of hope, “Yeh Saari Awaazein Kirney Ban Jayengi,” becomes a powerful motif, urging audiences to embrace the timeless message of doing the right thing.
Lastly, Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies is a nostalgic celebration that successfully blends vintage charm with contemporary flair. While some deviations from the source material might be noticeable, the film’s visual and musical prowess, coupled with its underlying optimism, make it a delightful cinematic experience. Whether you’re a die-hard Archie fan or a newcomer, there’s something endearing about stepping into Riverdale’s candy-colored paradise once again.
-by Jeet Pasad