Superboys of Malegaon

Some movies entertain you, some move you, and then there's Superboys of Malegaon; a film that does both, in the most unfiltered, heartfelt way possible. This isn't just a documentary about filmmaking; it's about dreams, struggles, and a love for cinema that refuses to be crushed by circumstances.

Superboys of Malegaon is the kind of film that doesn't come around often. It's real, it's raw, and it hits you right in the heart. If you've ever loved movies if you've ever dreamed of creating something despite the odds, or if you just want to see what true passion looks like-this, film is for you...

Set in the late 90s in the dusty lanes of Malegaon, a small town in Maharashtra, Superboys of Malegaon tells the story of Nasir Shaikh, a wedding videographer who's losing business but not hope. When he decides to make his own films - spoofs of Bollywood blockbusters - with his gang of friends, it kicks off a journey that's as chaotic as it is charming.

They have no money, no fancy cameras, no formal training - just an unmatched love for movies, desi-level jugaad, and friendship that carries them through every setback. What they create isn't perfect, but it's theirs - full of heart, humor, and hustle.

From building a dolly with bicycle parts to casting local boys in hero roles, every moment of filmmaking becomes an act of rebellion - against the system, against expectations, and sometimes even against themselves. As their "film" comes to life, so does their sense of identity and purpose.

Just got back home after watching this beautiful film, and I'm still carrying its warmth with me. My brother- an emerging filmmaker- took my mom and me (a visual artist) to see it, and we were completely moved. Strangely, the theater was nearly empty, which isn't always the case when a mass entertainer hits the screens. It's disheartening how often mediocrity gets the spotlight while films like this, so rich in depth and honesty, go unnoticed.

The moment I got home, I found myself looking up behind-the-scenes clips, but before I knew it, I was on IMDb, compelled to rate it- not out of habit, but because of the profound impact this piece of cinema had on me. It's moving. It's original. It's honest. Like a warm hug you didn't even know you needed.

I was also reminded of a reel my brother had shared- a clip of filmmaker Aditya Kripalani talking about the importance of rating and reviewing films. That's how change happens- by amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. A powerful message, when shared with honesty, can go a long way. And films like this? They deserve to be seen.

I've taken a break from writing reviews due to my busy schedule, but my love for movies remains strong. Recently, I heard great reviews about Super Boys of Malegaon and made an effort to watch it-what a remarkable film! Undoubtedly one of the best in recent years, it's an impactful masterpiece, much like 12th Fail.

Director Reema Kakati once again proves her brilliance after Talash and Dahaad, showcasing her impeccable storytelling. The performances were outstanding, with special mentions to my favorites-Vineet Kumar Singh, Adarsh Gourav, and Shashank Arora. Kudos to writer Varun Grover for another stellar job-I also miss your stand-ups!

Don't let its box office numbers deter you; this is the kind of cinema that keeps our love for movies alive. We need more films like this!

I just came out of an extremely bittersweet "special screening" of Superboys of Malegaon. The movie was simply fantastic with a perfect mix of heartwarming emotional drama and sweet realistic humor, augmented by terrific performances by an exceptional group of actors. The bitter part of the experience was the aspect of the "special screening" of the movie. Sitting absolutely alone in a theater on the opening weekend of a truly amazing piece of cinema. A beautifully crafted movie that deserves an audience, had absolutely no audience. Such a shame especially in a world where so many complaint about lack of originality, art and quality cinema.

Reema Kagti has done a terrific job making a movie about fans who love movies so much that they make their own movies. The story is based on the true story of the real Superboys of Malegaon who created their own mini film industry (un)known for its spoof comedies of great Bollywood and Hollywood movies. These Superboys first (almost) came into the limelight with the 2012 documentary "Supermen of Malegaon" which inspired Reema and team to bring their story to life on the big screen.

The movie is fast and entertaining with a healthy dose of scenes and performances that will make its viewer smile a lot, feel warm and good inside, think about things that are important in their lives and even tear up a bit. A simple and powerful story, passionately captured on camera with a superb group of artists infusing their characters with heart and soul.

Adarsh Gourav gives another exceptional performance as the movie's main superboy and is brilliantly supported by Vineet Kumar, Shashank Arora, Muskkaan Jaferi, Manjiri Pupala and practically every actor and actress in the movie. Each performance is truly heartfelt, real, wholesome, uplifting and awe inspiring. Which is why it was such a bittersweet experience watching such a well made movie in an empty theater.

It would be absolutely correct for people to say that such movies are meant for OTT and not for the big screen. However it is important for all to understand and recognize that this is the reason why such heartwarming movies cant find any place in theaters anymore. The Bollywood box office has completely transformed itself from a place where a big budget Ramesh Sippy blockbuster could play side by side with a heartwarming Hrishikesh Mukherjee movie to one that only has an appetite for over the top commercial cinema.

Such movies need and deserve support from their target audience. So if you want to experience a heartwarming tale about real people with dreams to become superheroes, grab a seat in the nearest empty hall near you that is still playing Superboys of Malegaon. It will not disappoint. Absolutely loved it. 9/10.