Superboys Of Malegaon Review: Reema Kagti’s Film Is A Celebration Of Friendship, Passion And The Magic Of Cinema
Superboys of Malegaon is in theatres now, and here's our review on it!
4 / 5
The buzz about Superboys of Malegaon was substantial, and it genuinely sparked curiosity inside me about its true impact. Well, what unfolded was a beautiful cinematic experience. Directed by Reema Kagti, it has a stellar ensemble cast and a deeply moving narrative. It’s a must-watch for all cinephiles, and if you are wondering why, read on for my detailed review of it!
Plot
The film follows the story of Nasir and his friends in a small town called Malegaon. Nasir loves films more than anything and even dreams of making his own films. Even though Malegaon didn’t seem like the place where big films happened, it gives it a shot. At first, Nasir showed people funny clips of famous action films mixed together. Everyone laughed, and he felt like a mini-star. But this got him into trouble, as he was using pirated videos. Then Nasir comes up with a brilliant idea! He decided to make his own funny versions of famous films, using his friends as actors. He borrowed a camera, and they started filming their version of Sholay.
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It became a big hit in Malegaon, and things were going great, but then problems started. Some of Nasir’s friends felt like he was using them, and they left. His next film didn’t do well, and he felt like a failure. On top of that, he got married in an arranged marriage, even though he still liked another girl. Things take a turn from here and show how Nasir and his friends go through good times and bad and how they work together, argue, and make up. It’s a story about friendship, dreams, and never giving up, even when things get tough.
Performances
The magic of the film truly shines through its actors. Adarsh Gourav, as Nasir, completely disappears into the role. You feel his passion, his dreams, and his struggles. Shashank Arora as Shafique was fully present in every scene. Vineet Singh, as Farogh, captures the spirit of a writer longing for more. A special mention to him; his voice and aura were everything. Anuj Singh Duhan and Saqib Ayub were equally great. Even with less screen time, they make their characters heard and valued. More kudos because the female actors too had an integral part in the story. Manjiri Pupala, as Trupti, is sassy, powerful and all things beautiful. Muskkaan Jaferi as Shabeena was too good and natural. I loved her chemistry with Adarsh Gourav.
What makes these performances so special is their honesty. They don’t just act out emotions; they live them. The camaraderie, the arguments, the moments of shared joy and disappointment—it all feels real. You see the dedication, the passion, and the sheer love of filmmaking in their eyes. Each actor, whether in a lead role or a smaller part, brings their unique energy to the film.
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Direction
Reema Kagti’s direction is a masterclass in capturing the soul of a community. She doesn’t just paint a backdrop; she immerses us in Malegaon’s vibrant, chaotic energy. The film’s brilliance lies in how she puts together the individual stories and makes each character feel essential. It’s not just Nasir’s dream; it’s the shared dream of his friends. We see the quiet dedication of those who help behind the camera, the nervous excitement of first-time actors, and the unwavering support that binds them together. Reema Kagti allows us to understand their motivations, their frustrations, and their belief in Nasir’s vision, even when he falters. She showcases the authentic camaraderie, the playful banter, and the moments of vulnerability that define their friendships. It’s the small, intimate moments that are the heart of the film.
Writing
Just like they say in the film “Writer Baap Hota Hai,” the writers truly are the kings of this film. They prove that a great story is the foundation of everything. Varun Grover, Shoaib Nazeer, and Reema Kagti crafted a script that’s both sharp and tender. It’s a beautiful mix of laughter and tears. Their writing doesn’t just tell a story; it makes you feel it, especially with those hard-hitting lines!
Cinematography
Can’t not mention the great cinematography.The colours are warm and slightly faded, like an old, beloved DVD. It adds the element of nostalgia and authenticity. It’s as if you’re watching a memory unfold. The shots are carefully chosen and showcase everything effectively.
Verdict: Where Every Frame Tells A Beautiful, Heartwarming Story
It is a breath of fresh air, a film that feels too real, raw, and fresh to be anything but genuine. Reema Kagti masterfully captures the energy of filmmaking in a small town. The cinematography, with its warm, almost faded colours, makes you feel like you’re watching an old, beloved DVD. This isn’t just a movie about making movies; it’s about the very essence of cinema’s power. It shows the crazy, beautiful obsession that drives people to create, even with nothing. The writing is sharp, with hard-hitting lines that stick with you and moments that can move you to tears or laughter.
The film’s casting is spot-on, with each actor embodying their character perfectly. The bond between the friends feels so honest and true, their love for each other ultimately surpassing their love for cinema. The film brilliantly showcases the contrast between ‘Sapno ka Shehar’ Mumbai and the raw reality of Malegaon. One particularly poignant scene, where a film reference helps the characters understand cancer—it hit me hard! It once again proves how films have a great impact on our lives. Superboys of Malegaon is more than just entertaining; it’s inspiring. You can watch it in theatres from February 28th.
First Published: February 28, 2025 12:26 PM
