The Archies Review: A Nostalgic Journey

The Archies Movie, helmed by the talented trio of Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Ayesha DeVitre, takes a visually stunning approach, reminiscent of Shimla meets Santorini. However, the film falls into the trap of prioritising style over substance, leaving the audience craving a more engaging storyline. Nikos Andritsakis' cinematography beautifully captures the retro vibrance of Riverdale, but the predictability of the plot constantly disrupts the visual charm.

The film, touted as a 'launchpad' for star kids, attempts a subtle nod with the song 'Sunoh,' weaving in references to 'Suhani' and 'Khushi.' Yet, the purpose behind this cryptic inclusion remains unclear. The Anglo-Indian background of the characters justifies their accents, but the flawless rendition of songs using words like 'Rawani' creates a noticeable disconnect.

In terms of star performances, the daughter of SRK, Suhana Khan and the daughter of Sridevi, Khushi Kapoor, despite their potential, display a certain laziness in their acting. Agastya Nanda's debut mirrors this lacklustre effort, leaving the audience yearning for more emotional depth. However, Vedang Raina and Yuvraj Menda shine in their respective roles, delivering a standout sequence that stands as the film's highlight. He is no stranger to glitz and glamour, which is what makes Mihir Ahuja a perfect match for The Archies.

Zoya Akhtar's direction takes an unexpected turn as she compromises her distinctive vision to accommodate the launch of star-kids. This departure from her usual style is disheartening, especially after the letdown of Made In Heaven 2. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's musical score, with sixteen songs in 'Why School Musical?' disappoints by acting as mere fillers rather than enhancing the narrative.

Despite its vibrant colour palette, catchy musical tracks, and the exuberance of young actors, The Archies Netflix struggles with an identity crisis. Hovering between a slice-of-life drama set in the 60s and a musical with Gen-Z awareness, the film merely grazes the surface without delving into substantial themes.

What Makes The Archies Special?

The narrative, set in an Anglo-Indian hill town during the mid-1960s, attempts to transplant the beloved Archie comics into a uniquely Indian context. The film introduces a believable universe where a group of high schoolers navigates love, friendship, and societal issues. The characters, though possessing clear-cut traits, avoid becoming archetypal, contributing to the film's easy-flowing rhythm.

Archie Andrews, caught in a romantic dilemma between Veronica and Betty, forms the core of the story. The film's strength lies in its vivid characters and the camaraderie they share while dealing with the challenges of adolescence. The Archies successfully addresses themes of corporate greed, media freedom, and unsustainable development, all within the backdrop of a small town facing redevelopment.

The film's soundtrack, featuring catchy tunes, complements the narrative, adding depth to the volatile minds of the teenagers. The decision to set the story in a community that chose India and 1947 and 1964 as chronological bookends adds layers to the film. The Archies cleverly intertwines the personal growth of its characters with broader socio-political issues, celebrating the spirit of the youth while critiquing the challenges they face.

In contrast to the CW series Riverdale, The Archies avoids excessive high-concepts, delivering a grounded, nostalgic coming-of-age story. The film's historical setting in 1964 holds significance, emphasizing the characters' coming of age in a free India. The love triangle between Archie, Betty, and Veronica, while present, occasionally slows the pace, but the strong friendships within the Riverdale gang remain the heart of the story.

The Archies cast, with its dynamic performances, celebration of youth, and recontextualization of familiar characters, excels as a refreshing adaptation. The film captures the essence of the Archie comics while infusing new life into the characters, offering a fun, upbeat experience that transcends the constraints of its runtime. The Archies trailer is a delightful oddity, striking a balance between the flip and the solemn, showcasing the complexities of teenage life against a backdrop of historical and societal changes.

The Archies release date: December 7, 2023 lets wait and see if "The Archies" would be Flop or Hit.