As the opening strains of ‘Sunoh’ enveloped the screen and welcomed me into Zoya Akhtar’s rendition of the iconic Archie Comics, an immediate sense of nostalgia was mixed with anticipation. The cast, comprising Agastya Nanda as Archie, Suhana Khan as Veronica, and Khushi Kapoor as Betty, looked the part and brought a certain charm to the idyllic 1960s hill station setting.
The film’s strength undeniably lies in its impeccable casting and picturesque setting. Agastya Nanda as Archie exudes the boyish charm and musical flair befitting the character, while Suhana Khan and Khushi Kapoor embody the essence of Veronica Lodge and Betty Cooper flawlessly. The period-appropriate setting, a quaint hill station in 1960s India, adds an extra layer of nostalgia, making it a visual treat.
However, as the narrative unfolded, it became evident that The Archies was a mixed bag, a film with moments of brilliance but lacked the sassy and vivacious energy one might expect from a Zoya Akhtar venture. Though nostalgic and idealistic, the storytelling lacked the depth and nuanced exploration of characters that could have elevated it beyond a mere trip down memory lane.
One notable aspect that struck a chord was the treatment of the love triangle involving Archie, Veronica, and Betty. Instead of succumbing to the cliché of two women vying for the protagonist’s attention, the film took a refreshing approach. It showcased how Betty and Veronica dealt with Archie’s playboy nature, steering clear of the typical rivalry trope. This departure from the conventional narrative was a commendable and empowering move, offering a modern twist to the classic tale.
The musical treatment of the film was undeniably one of its highlights. Zoya Akhtar opted for a peppy musical journey, seamlessly blending dialogue and scenario with song, reminiscent of the American approach. The musical numbers added a vibrant and lively dimension to the film, capturing the spirit of the swinging ’60s by crediting – Ankur Tiwari (by the way, did you notice him in the film).
Yet, even with the impressive musical interludes, the film lacked those memorable, take-home dialogues that linger in the audience’s minds long after the credits roll. The absence of sharp, witty lines and profound moments left a void, making the overall impact less enduring than one would expect from a director of Zoya Akhtar’s caliber.
Though earnest, Agastya Nanda’s portrayal of Archie and Suhana Khan’s take on Veronica felt somewhat forced and lacked the natural charisma that defined these beloved characters. While the supporting cast, particularly Vedang Raina as Reggie, brought their charisma to the screen, the chemistry between the leads fell short of creating the enchanting world one associates with the ‘Archie’ comics.
As the narrative delved into the theme of ambition, I found myself wrestling with mixed feelings. The Archies subtly explored the heavy price that often accompanies ambition, offering a nuanced perspective on the consequences of career choices. The character of Ethel Muggs, portrayed by the talented Aditi Dot, brought this theme to the forefront. When she changed her job for a better salary and hike, it triggered contemplation about the sacrifices made in the pursuit of success.
Despite the film’s attempt to pay homage to the bygone era of socialist idealism, it somehow failed to fully transport the audience into the world of ‘Archie’ comics. The meticulous design and picturesque scenes felt too polished, lacking the rough edges and spontaneity that could have added authenticity to the narrative. It was a miss in capturing the essence of the comics, leaving the audience yearning for a deeper connection to the source material.
The Archies stand as a melodic ode to yesteryears, capturing the magic of a beloved comic series with its spot-on casting and picturesque setting. The film successfully reimagines the love triangle without succumbing to stereotypes and treats the audience to a lively musical journey. However, the lack of a sassy narrative punch, coupled with the absence of memorable dialogues and a failure to immerse the audience in the ‘Archie’ universe fully, prevents it from achieving the heights of excellence expected from Zoya Akhtar.
While it’s a charming watch, The Archies leaves a wistful yearning for the untapped potential that could have made it a true cinematic masterpiece.