The much awaited debut of Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies is here. The film promises a cinematic extravaganza, showcasing not only a new and vibrant cast of stars but also a unique Indian take on the iconic Archie Comics.
Here’s everything you need to know about The Archies before watching the film.
Cast
The Archies features an exciting ensemble cast. As the endearing and gifted Archie Andrews, Agastya Nanda assumes the part, and Khushi Kapoor plays Betty Cooper. Suhana Khan plays Veronica Lodge, Mihir Ahuja plays Jughead Jones, Vedang Raina plays Reggie Mantle, and Yuvraj Menda plays Dilton Doiley. As Ethel Muggs, Aditi “Dot” Saigal completes the group.
Apart from the principal characters, noteworthy cameos by Koel Purie, Santana Roach, Tara Sharma Saluja, and Delnaaz Irani enhance the cinematic story.
Plot
The story is presented as a coming-of-age musical that takes place in the fictional hilltop town of Riverdale. The film examines friendship, independence, love, heartbreak, and rebellion from the distinctive perspective of the Anglo-Indian community.
The central theme of the film is the bond between a group of friends, which is put to the test when a well-liked park is put in danger by a large-scale local redevelopment project. The redevelopment is being led by Veronica’s father, who wants to build a hotel on the park site. The gang puts aside their disagreements and puts up a united front to prevent the public area from being destroyed.
Runtime and trailer
The Archies, which runs for two hours and twenty-one minutes (141 minutes), promises an engaging experience for viewers. The teaser, released in November, provides a look into a world full of love, friendship, music, and a group of people determined to be heard. The teaser, which concludes with the inspirational phrase “You’re never too young to change the world,” sets the tone for an engrossing cinematic experience.
Crew
Director Zoya Akhtar, who also worked with Reema Kagti and Ayesha Devitre Dhillon on the writing, is behind the camera for The Archies. Nikos Andritsakis does a fantastic job with the film’s cinematography, and Nitin Baid handles the film’s editing. Bosco-Caesar and Ganesh Hegde choreographed the song scenes.
Soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack has contributions from Aditi Saigal, The Islanders, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, and Ankur Tewari. Tejas, Arijit Singh, and Suhana Khan—who is making her singing debut—are a few of the gifted talents that are enhancing the musical aspect.
Filming locations
The Archies takes place in the midst of Mumbai’s busy streets and Ooty’s scenic surroundings. The first schedule was shot at Ooty starting in April 2022, and the second schedule was shot in Mumbai.
The Archies, which is now out on OTT made waves on November 22nd at the 54th International Film Festival of India. The film’s premiere was attended by of Bollywood’s glitterati, such as Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and others.