TIFF 2024: Superboys of Malegaon (by Reema Kagti) | Review

The Reema Kagti-Zoya Akhtar combo and their array of films across multiple genres should be placed on an altar for ‘fan worship.’ From Dahaad, arguably one of India’s most captivating crime series, to Gully Boy, a selection at the 2019 Berlinale Film Festival, the duo, alternating between directing and writing roles, have significantly influenced Indian cinema by fusing every genre possible to produce distinctive films with significant content. Adding to their everlasting list is TIFF’s Gala Presentations selection, Superboys of Malegaon, which is based on the classic true story of Nasir Shaikh from the city of Malegaon, India.

Every dream starts with an idea, and every idea is a stepping stone towards success. In 1997, the village of Malegaon appeared ordinary, with everyone occupied with their daily work chores, including a few enthusiastic young boys. Nasir Shaikh, a village wedding videographer, was glued to his video camera at every wedding occasion. Meanwhile, the whole village was fond of action-packed films by famous actors like Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee, and Buster Keaton, and watching these films had become a moment of celebration in the village’s small cinema halls. An innovative idea inspired Nasir to edit a number of remarkable action scenes into a film, which temporarily brought him fame but ultimately ended with a warning about piracy. However, a man who is creative and resourceful would discover more fruitful ways to direct his passion, leading Nasir and a few dedicated boys on a unique cinematic journey of community-funded filmmaking filled with success, desolation, and unexpected turns.

In the end credits of the film, the names of researchers were present to depict Shaikh’s history and personal life, which itself shows the depth of coverage the film offers. Director Reema Kagti reveals the minds of ambitious young adults seeking a cinematic transformation, a revolution in their pursuit of recognition and determination. These out-of-the-box thinkers, each with their own expertise despite being inexperienced, come together to create history in their village without any qualms. Even the casting is incredible, featuring BAFTA nominee Adarsh Gourav as Nasir Shaikh, who gave a soulful performance, followed by Shashank Arora, who left a lasting impression in the series Made in Heaven, and Vineet Kumar Singh, who is an upcoming star in the world of Bollywood. The rural culture of India is showcased against a vivid backdrop of colors that harmoniously connect with viewers. However, Kagti equally portrays the setbacks that accompany the cycle of achieving fame, including misunderstandings of pride, oppression of writers, a lack of respect for the arts, rejection of love, and jealousy, all of which obstruct and complicate Nasir’s and the boys’ paths. The structure’s inherent politics are depicted, presenting Nasir and the boys with obstacles and challenges that plunge them into a range of issues, including poverty, social class, and peer pressure. However, every struggle makes a man stronger, and a strong man never loses his charm.

Superboys of Malegaon, produced by Zoya Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani, Reema Kagti, and Farhan Akhtar, is a respectable tribute to Nasir Sheikh and every other individual who embarks on their desired journey based on their passionate hearts and spirit. The film traverses various timelines, surpassing technological advancements to honor independent and sole filmmakers, highlighting their triumphs and challenges, and celebrating the evolution of Indian cinema at its peak. The film exhibits the potential for the attainment of relatively simple aspirations, with the possibility to transform those around us. Reema Kagti and Nasir Shaikh ultimately place a message on our palms, stating that love, commitment, compassion, resilience, and passion are the packages that will eventually humanize us and lead us to greater heights.

Explore our coverage of the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival here.