Archie Comics were a defining introduction for young adolescents into a world of coolness long before TV, Social Media ,etc.

The movie adaptation of 'The Archies,' directed by Zoya Akhtar, embraces a retro 1960s storyboard in an Anglo-Indian setting. The film spotlights individuals of mixed heritage who chose to remain in India post-British Raj.

While the film delves into politics through a vibrant musical number, it excessively glorifies the 1960s era without addressing the significant social and political issues of the time in India.

Set in the fictional town of Riverdale in the North Indian hills, the film showcases Archie Andrews( Agastya Nanda), Betty Cooper( Kushi Kapoor), Veronica Lodge( Suhana Khan), and others, embodying the spirit of a newly independent India.

The storyline takes a turn when Riverdale High School students lament the closure of their beloved local café, Pop Tates, replaced by pre-packaged lunches. Dissatisfied, they voice concerns about the loss of the personal touch the café provided.However, when faced with the threat of encroachment on Green Park, they fight against capitalist intrusion affecting their hometown's cultural fabric.

The film struggles to capture the vigor and depth seen in 'Gully Boy,' opting for a bland, superficial approach. Notably, it features a star-studded cast of Bollywood's offspring. While the styling and music stand out, the film falls short of its comic counterpart, lacking the same nostalgic appeal. 'The Archies' is now available for streaming on Netflix.

Verdict : The film adaptation of "The Archies" struggles to capture the essence and depth of the original comic series, offering flashy nostalgia but lacking substance and engaging storytelling.

Rating: 2 / 5