The Archies: Suhana Khan and Mihir Ahuja Stand Out in Zoya Akhtar’s Nostalgic Journey

Zoya Akhtar, known for her exceptional filmmaking skills, ventures into new territory with her latest project, The Archies. Initially appearing as a typical teen romance with a lineup of fresh faces, including star kids with their own fan base, the film holds promise. With a renowned director like Akhtar and the backing of Netflix, it sets the stage for these budding actors. The Indian adaptation of the beloved Archie comics adds an exciting twist. However, Akhtar’s touch ensures there’s more depth than just a teen flick; she subtly weaves societal commentary throughout. While the message may not hit home entirely, it resonates in parts.

So, what’s the deal with The Archies? We’ve all flipped through those comics, right? Even if not, Archie, Veronica, and Betty are pretty familiar names. Zoya Akhtar, alongside writers Reema Kagti and Ayesha Devitre Dhillon, transports us to the 1960s, placing the story in a fictional town in the hills of north India, inspired by the American town Riverdale. Here, Archie, Veronica, Betty, and their crew are high schoolers leading a sheltered life. Archie dreams of studying music in London, aiming to follow in Cliff Richard’s footsteps, with his band, The Archies, performing at every town event. Caught in a love triangle between the sophisticated Veronica and the down-to-earth Betty, Archie’s best friend Jughead advises caution.

As the teens navigate love and future plans, they learn that their town faces transformation due to Veronica’s father’s hotel development plans. The proposed construction threatens the sentimental Green Park, sparking resistance from the youth. Can Archie and his friends preserve their cherished park? And ultimately, who will Archie choose between Veronica and Betty? The storyline unfolds in a musical setting, skillfully crafted by Akhtar.

Do the new kids bring it? Well, it’s a mixed bag. There’s been a lot of buzz about the fresh faces in the movie. Shah Rukh Khan’s daughter Suhana Khan, Sridevi’s daughter Khushi Kapoor, and Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda are under the spotlight due to their famous lineage. Suhana Khan stands out as confident Veronica, stealing the show with her screen presence and ease on camera. Agastya Nanda has his moments but appears a bit uneasy at times, feeling the weight of leading the pack. Khushi Kapoor, on the other hand, falls short compared to the original Betty Cooper from the comics.

The other four young actors, however, nail their roles. Maybe the absence of the legacy burden works in their favor. Dot as Ethel, Mihir Ahuja as Jughead Jones, Vedang Raina as Reggie, and Yuvraj Menda as Dilton all deliver solid performances. Ahuja, especially, shines as the burger-loving Jughead, creating memorable scenes with Agastya. Their chemistry is on point, with one navigating love confusion and the other providing wise advice.

Menda’s Dilton is endearing, and his unique way of saying ‘Thank You’ might catch on with the Gen Z crowd. The writers give Dilton’s character a twist, and Menda and Ahuja execute it beautifully.