Director: Shauna Gautam
Rating: ***½
The much-anticipated Gen Z romantic comedy 'Nadaaniyan' has finally arrived on Netflix, marking the debut of Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of Bollywood superstar Saif Ali Khan. Starring alongside Khushi Kapoor, the film captures the essence of teenage love, friendships, and the rollercoaster of emotions that come with growing up.
A Nostalgic Journey into Youth and Innocence
Growing up comes with its fair share of challenges—choosing the right friends, making crucial career decisions, striving to impress parents, or simply trying to navigate family conflicts. As teenagers, setbacks feel like the end of the world, only to realize they were just the beginning of a larger journey. 'Nadaaniyan' beautifully encapsulates this innocence, chaos, and beauty of youth, taking audiences on a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Directed by debutant Shauna Gautam, the film follows the journey of Arjun Mehta (Ibrahim Ali Khan) and Pia Jaisingh (Khushi Kapoor) as they navigate school life, friendships, family struggles, and unexpected romance.
The Plot: A Fake Relationship That Feels All Too Real
The story unfolds with Pia finding herself in an awkward situation—she needs to prove she’s dating someone to convince her friends that she isn’t in love with her best friend’s crush. To solve this dilemma, she ropes in Arjun, the new student and a debate team scholar, offering him a staggering Rs 25,000 crore per week to pretend to be her boyfriend. And just like that, their adventure, or rather, their ‘Nadaaniyan’ begins.
Bringing back the ever-popular “fake dating” trope, the film sets the stage for an engaging rom-com, keeping the audience hooked from the very beginning. Director Shauna Gautam ensures a seamless narrative flow, blending lighthearted fun with deeper emotional moments, making it a well-balanced cinematic experience.
A Perfect Blend of Fun, Drama, and Romance
The first half of the film is vibrant and youthful, centering around friendships, school life, and a blossoming romance. As the film progresses, the narrative deepens, exploring family conflicts, emotional struggles, and the challenges of growing up. From typical teenage misunderstandings to classic high-school rivalries, 'Nadaaniyan' brings together elements that resonate with young audiences while also striking a chord with older viewers.
Dharma-esque Aesthetics & Bollywood Nostalgia
The film’s larger-than-life school setting, fashionable uniforms, and ultra-glamorous visuals scream Bollywood grandeur. Every frame is visually appealing, making it a treat to watch. Additionally, the presence of veteran actors like Suniel Shetty, Mahima Chaudhry, Dia Mirza, and Jugal Hansraj adds a nostalgic charm, bringing warmth and emotional depth to the story.
Ibrahim Ali Khan: A Promising Debut
For his debut film, Ibrahim Ali Khan proves he’s more than just a star kid. His effortless screen presence, charm, and dedication make him a standout performer. With shades of his father’s old-school Saif Ali Khan charm, he commands attention every time he appears on screen. His portrayal of Arjun Mehta is refreshing, promising a bright future in Bollywood.
Khushi Kapoor: A Role That Feels Personal
As Pia Jaisingh, Khushi Kapoor delivers a delightful performance. Beneath her bubbly and spirited persona lies a deeper struggle—growing up in a broken family, dealing with friends who doubt her, and unexpectedly catching real feelings in a fake relationship. Her evolution throughout the film is compelling, making her character one of the most relatable in the story.
Music That Tugs at Your Heartstrings
The film’s music, composed by Sachin-Jigar, adds emotional depth and enhances the storytelling. With tracks like 'Ishq Mein', 'Tirkat Dhoom', and the nostalgic title track, the film’s soundtrack evokes strong emotions. The music seamlessly complements the narrative, much like 'Wake Up Sid', leaving audiences with a lasting impression.
Final Verdict: A Feel-Good Rom-Com That Stays with You
'Nadaaniyan' is a heartwarming cinematic experience—a rollercoaster of emotions filled with love, laughter, and moments of self-discovery. While the screenplay could have been tighter and the dialogue delivery smoother, the film’s charm, engaging storytelling, and strong performances make up for its minor flaws.
For those who enjoy nostalgic Bollywood rom-coms, 'Nadaaniyan' is a must-watch. It will make you smile, tear up, and leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling—just the way a good romantic comedy should. If you’re looking for a film that brings back the magic of youthful romance, this one deserves a spot on your watchlist!
