Review: Superboys of Malegaon – A Love Letter to Cinema and Its Dreamers
Cinema has always been the playground of dreamers, a world where stories transcend reality and ignite the imagination of millions. Even in the age of digital entertainment, the silver screen continues to hold an unshakable charm, especially in the heartlands of India. Nestled within this cinematic obsession lies Malegaon, a small district in Maharashtra, where a group of passionate filmmakers dared to create magic with sheer grit and love for movies. Their inspiring journey was first captured in #FaizaAhmadKhans 2008 documentary Supermen of Malegaon. Now, director #ReemaKagti, with her cinematic finesse, brings us Superboys of Malegaon, a fictionalized yet heartfelt tribute to the same spirit, giving due credit to its real-life inspirations.
At the heart of this tale is Nasir Shaikh (#AdarshGourav), a local videographer who owns a modest video parlor screening Hollywood classics. But as his business dwindles, he dares to dream bigger—why not make a film of his own? Alongside his loyal friends Shafique (#ShashankArora), Farogh, the writer (#VineetKumarSingh), Abram (#AnujSingh), and Shakeel (#SaqibAyub), Nasir embarks on a mission to create a spoof of the Bollywood classic Sholay—and thus, Malegaon Ke Sholay is born. Their passion and ingenuity capture the hearts of the local audience, encouraging them to push forward. A spoof on Shaan follows, cementing their place in Malegaon’s modest film circuit. But as fame creeps in, so do conflicts—credit battles cause a heartbreaking split within the group.
Yet, cinema has a way of bringing people back together. When Nasir decides to venture beyond spoofs and create an original film, he turns to his dearest friend Shafique—now diagnosed with cancer—to be his hero. What follows is an emotional, inspiring reunion, as their shared love for filmmaking becomes a healing force in their lives.
Reema Kagti’s direction is a delicate blend of realism and whimsy, capturing the raw, undying spirit of these small-town cinephiles. The screenplay, co-written by the #VarunGrover, is meticulously crafted—fast-paced, engaging, and devoid of dull moments. There isn’t a second where the audience feels the urge to glance at their mobile screens, a testament to the film’s gripping narrative. The dialogue sparkles with wit and depth, with lines like “Writer baap hota hai” (The writer is the father of the film) serving as a sharp critique of the industry’s star-driven culture. Humour is infused effortlessly, ensuring that even the most poignant moments never feel overly heavy.
Visually, the film stays true to its grassroots essence, with cinematography that beautifully captures the rustic charm of Malegaon. The music and production values align seamlessly with the film’s tone, enhancing its authenticity without overpowering the story. Adarsh Gourav delivers a pitch-perfect performance, embodying Nasir’s resilience and youthful zeal with remarkable finesse. Shashank Arora, as the loyal and endearing Shafique, wins hearts with his innocent yet mature portrayal. Vineet Kumar Singh, as the passionate writer Farogh, leaves a lasting impact with his powerhouse performance, striking a balance between ambition and vulnerability. Despite limited screen time, #MuskaanJaferi (as Nasir’s wife) and #ManjiriPupala (as Basmati, a playful spoof of Sholay’s Basanti) shine, adding charm and depth to the narrative.
With its perfect blend of humor, emotion, and nostalgia, Superboys of Malegaon is a must-watch for anyone who has ever been captivated by the magic of movies.
***1/2
By Keerti Kadam