Movie Review: The Archies

Genre: Musical/Drama | Director: Zoya Akhtar
Cast: Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, Agastya Nanda, Vedang Raina

⭐ Verdict: A visually polished but hollow adaptation that prioritizes aesthetics over authentic performances.

Plot (Spoiler-Free):

A desi-fied version of the classic Archie Comics, set in 1960s India, following Archie, Betty, Veronica, and the gang as they navigate love, friendship, and teenage rebellion in the fictional hill station of Riverdale.

✅ What Worked:

• Cinematography & Production Design:
  • Gorgeous pastel visuals and nostalgic 60s aesthetic
  • Meticulous set/costume design creates a whimsical vibe
• Music & Choreography:
  • Catchy retro-style musical numbers
  • Well-styled dance sequences

❌ What Didn’t Work:

• Performances:
  • Suhana Khan (Veronica) struggles with dialogue delivery and expressions
  • Khushi Kapoor (Betty) lacks the charm needed for the role
  • The cast feels like they’re playing dress-up rather than embodying characters
• Weak Script & Pacing:
  • No real conflict or depth—just surface-level teen drama
  • Feels more like a fashion catalog than a compelling story
• Miscast Leads:
  • Agastya Nanda’s Archie is bland and forgettable

Best Moment:

The vibrant “Va Va Voom” musical sequence—the only time the film truly comes alive.

Rating: 2/5 (Pretty to look at, painful to sit through)

Final Words:

The Archies is proof that good cinematography and a famous director can’t save a film with wooden performances and zero soul. Unless you’re curious about Bollywood’s new nepo babies, this one’s a skip.