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The Archies, a new Netflix adaptation of the beloved Archie Comics, takes a fresh approach by recontextualizing the characters in 1960s India. Directed by Zoya Akhtar, this upbeat Bollywood comedy successfully captures the spirit of the original comics while introducing a nostalgic and vibrant setting.
The Big Picture
The film revolves around the iconic characters from Archie Comics, who are uprooted from their familiar small-town USA setting and placed in India during the 1960s. This reimagining of the Riverdale gang offers a unique perspective on their adventures and challenges. The Archies explores themes of friendship, romance, and coming of age, as the characters navigate the complexities of adulthood while working together to save a beloved park from developers.
Although Archie's indecisiveness between Betty and Veronica remains a weak point of the film, the strong friendships and dynamic performances of the cast make The Archies a worthwhile watch for both fans of the comics and Bollywood enthusiasts.
The Archies: Set in 1960s India
The setting of The Archies is one of its standout features. By transporting the characters to 1960s India, the film creates a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere. Riverdale, the small town at the center of the story, was founded by an Englishman and his Indian wife during the British Occupation. It became a haven for Anglo-Indian families, particularly after India gained independence.
The film cleverly incorporates historical context, emphasizing that the teenage protagonists were born in the year of India's independence. This choice adds depth to their experiences and highlights their unique position as a generation that grew up in a free India. The Archies explores their journey of self-discovery and their efforts to preserve the historical significance of Green Park, a central location in the town.
The Story of The Archies
The Archies follows the lives of 17-year-old Archie Andrews (played by Agastya Nanda) and his friends Jughead (Mihir Ahuja), Betty (Khushi Kapoor), Veronica (Suhana Khan), Reggie (Vedang Raina), Ethel (Dot), and Dilton (Yuvraj Menda). These characters navigate the challenges of adolescence in the small town of Riverdale, India.
The film's central conflict revolves around the threat to Green Park, a historically significant park in Riverdale. Developers aim to turn it into private property for a hotel, prompting the gang to rally together to save the park from destruction. As they face the impending loss of a cherished space, the characters also grapple with personal struggles, relationships, and the uncertainties of growing up.
Capturing the Spirit of the Comics
The Archies successfully captures the spirit of the original Archie Comics while infusing it with the vibrancy of Bollywood. The film's soundtrack, featuring music and lyrics by Ankur Tiwari, The Islanders, Aditi Saigal, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, and Javed Akhtar, adds to the overall charm. The script, penned by Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Ayesha Devtire Dhillon, is filled with zippy one-liners and poignant moments.
The young cast of The Archies shines through their comedic timing and dynamic performances. Whether newcomers or "nepo babies," they embody the essence of the beloved characters. The film's emphasis on friendship, romance, and the challenges of growing up resonates with audiences who have fond memories of the Archie Comics.
The Love Triangle and Beyond
One of the recurring themes in Archie Comics is the love triangle between Archie, Betty, and Veronica. In The Archies, this element is present, but it is also the film's weakest aspect. Archie's constant indecisiveness about choosing between Betty and Veronica becomes a source of frustration. While this conflict adds tension to the story, it tends to drag on for a significant portion of the film.
Fortunately, The Archies offers more than just the love triangle. The unrequited crush Ethel harbors for Jughead provides another layer of emotional depth. Jughead's character, as explored in a 2016 issue of Jughead, is implied to be asexual. While this aspect is not explicitly mentioned in the film, the portrayal of Jughead's disinterest in romantic relationships adds a refreshing perspective to his character.
The Strength of Friendship
Beyond romantic entanglements, The Archies places a strong emphasis on friendship. The camaraderie within the Riverdale gang serves as the heart of the story. The friendships depicted in the film feel dynamic and authentic, evolving as the characters navigate the challenges of adolescence and the changes in their lives.
Dilton and Reggie, two members of the gang, are given surprisingly thoughtful character arcs. Moose and Midge, another couple within the group, have a sweet and supportive relationship. Their genuine connection accentuates Archie's indecisiveness and highlights the strength of the friendships that sustain the characters throughout the film.
A Departure from Riverdale
While The Archies shares its source material with the popular CW series Riverdale, the two adaptations diverge significantly. Unlike Riverdale, which evolves into a series of heightened, dramatic storylines, The Archies takes a more grounded approach. The film's focus on the characters' personal growth and their dedication to preserving their hometown sets it apart from the TV series.
The Archies is set in 1964, with the teenage characters all being 17 years old. Born in 1947, they are a generation that fully experienced a free India. The film celebrates the sense of "home" found in Riverdale, emphasizing the importance of family and community. While it does not delve deeply into the historical context of British occupation, the film presents a snapshot of youth in a changing world.
An Adaptation That Transcends
The Archies offers a refreshing take on beloved characters, blending the nostalgia of the comic series with the vibrancy of Bollywood. It succeeds in recontextualizing the characters in 1960s India, infusing the story with a unique cultural backdrop. The well-executed script, catchy soundtrack, and dynamic performances contribute to the film's overall appeal.
This adaptation showcases the timeless themes and enduring charm of the Archie Comics, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike. The Archies instills hope and joy, leaving viewers with a desire to dance long after the credits roll.
Conclusion
The Archies is a nostalgic and refreshing adaptation that breathes new life into the beloved comic characters. By transporting them to 1960s India, the film provides a vibrant setting and explores themes of friendship, romance, and coming of age. While it may stumble with Archie's indecisiveness between Betty and Veronica, the strong performances and dynamic relationships among the cast make The Archies an enjoyable experience. This adaptation successfully captures the spirit of the original comics while introducing a unique Bollywood flair. The Archies is a celebration of youth, friendship, and the importance of home. With its catchy soundtrack and heartwarming story, The Archies is a film that will leave you dancing with joy.
