“The Archies” (2023) is a vibrant Indian Hindi-language teen musical comedy film that made its debut on Netflix on December 7, 2023, following its initial premiere at the 54th International Film Festival of India on November 22, 2023. Directed by the talented Zoya Akhtar, who also co-produced the film with Reema Kagti under Tiger Baby Films and Sharad Devarajan under Graphic India, “The Archies” is a live-action adaptation of the beloved fictional rock band from the 1960s animated cartoon “The Archie Show,” featuring characters derived from Archie Comics.
Storyline:
The storyline revolves around Archie and his friends as they navigate the challenges of friendship, romance, and the fate of Riverdale’s cherished park, which faces the threat of demolition by developers.
Cast:
The film boasts a promising ensemble cast, including Agastya Nanda, Khushi Kapoor, Suhana Khan, Vedang Raina, Mihir Ahuja, Aditi “Dot” Saigal, and Yuvraj Menda. This dynamic cast brings to life the iconic characters from Archie Comics, capturing the essence of the beloved source material.
Zoya Akhtar’s involvement as the director and producer was officially announced in November 2021, with the project having been in development since March 2018. The extensive pre-production and casting process paved the way for the film to be shot from April to December 2022 in Ooty, Mauritius, and Mumbai.
Nikos Andritsakis, known for his exceptional cinematography skills, handled the visual aspects of the film, capturing the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the Archie universe. The original score, as well as the catchy songs featured in the movie, were composed by the talented duo Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy and Jim Satya. Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy collaborated with Ankur Tewari, The Islanders, and Aditi Saigal in composing the film’s memorable songs.
With an estimated budget of ₹40 crore (US$5.0 million), “The Archies” is a testament to the creative prowess of its production team and the passion invested in bringing the beloved characters to life freshly and entertainingly.
The film received a mixed-to-positive response from critics upon its release, with praise for its lively musical sequences, engaging storyline, and the performances of the young cast. “The Archies” on Netflix offers a nostalgic yet modern take on the iconic characters, making it a delightful watch for fans of Archie Comics and a new generation of viewers alike.