Movies are often created by people who dream big. These unique individuals want more than what they grew up with and have the creativity to turn their ideas into art. Nasir Shaikh (Adarsh Gourav) was one of those people who have big dreams. He ran a small shop and a makeshift movie theater in his hometown of Maleagon, where everyone knows each other and gets involved in each other’s lives. Feeling bored and excited after seeing a video copier for the first time, he begins to put together clips from classic movies and shows them as if they were brand new films. People really enjoy them, and Nasir has a big idea to remake the famous Indian movie “Sholay. “ He plans to use gear from a local wedding photographer, and townspeople will help as actors, set builders, lighting crew, and costume makers.
To everyone’s surprise, it’s popular not only in Malegaon but also in nearby areas, which has helped Nasir become well-known. As he becomes more famous, will he remember the people who supported him and the town that helped him grow.
“Superboys of Malegaon,” which is inspired by the documentary “Supermen of Malegaon,” starts off with a lot of excitement that gets the audience ready for a fun experience. And it is really fun, at least for some time. Director Reema Kagti shows the feelings of her characters clearly through her style. She keeps the excitement high when they are being creative, but slows things down when the story focuses on their personal problems with each other. This wouldn’t be a big issue if Kagti and Varun Grover’s screenplay focused more on how Nasir made his films, which are the best parts of the movie. Sadly, to show the energy and messiness of amateur filmmaking, a lot of this part of the story is turned into quick clips and short scenes. But all of them move quickly and in a fun way, with a lively soundtrack that will make you want to jump in your seat.
Most of the movie is about the time after “Malegaon’s Sholay,” when Nasir has mostly left his hometown. A surprising change brings him back to make a film with his old friends, but the tension between them casts a shadow over their happiness, making it harder for the audience to enjoy it. If the movie had taken its time at the beginning, showing the characters working together more, the ending wouldn’t feel so empty. The issues faced and the lessons learned seem common (even if they’re based on real experiences), which is disappointing because the movie really captures the time and setting well. The detailed sets and smart use of simple filming techniques are what make the film feel unique. The actors do a great job with their roles, but the script’s over-the-top message about honesty, teamwork, and creativity distracts from its genuine feelings. It’s nice but not very strong; it’s touching but not deep. “Superboys of Malegaon” is okay, but just the small parts we see of Nasir’s movies show that a much better film could be made from the same story. It’s a good-looking surface, but it doesn’t have enough depth to be as memorable as the movies it’s based on.