✅ “Superboys of Malegaon (2025)” is a heartwarming Hindi-language biographical drama and comedy, directed by Reema Kagti. It tells the inspiring true story of Nasir Shaikh, an amateur filmmaker from the small town of Malegaon, and his group of friends who, despite limited resources, forge their own vibrant film industry by creating no-budget spoofs of popular cinema. Released on February 28, 2025, the film is a touching ode to the magic of filmmaking, the power of dreams, and the spirit of ‘jugaad’ (innovative improvisation). With stellar performances from Adarsh Gourav, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Shashank Arora, it has garnered significant critical acclaim for its authenticity, humor, and inspiring narrative.

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7.7/10

Superboys of Malegaon

Director: Reema Kagti

Writers: Varun Grover

Stars: Adarsh Gourav, Shashank Arora, Vineet Kumar Singh

Country: India

Genres: Comedy, Drama

Languages: Hindi

Overview: The residents of Malegaon look to Bollywood cinema for a much-needed escape from daily drudgery. Amateur filmmaker Nasir Shaikh gets inspired to make a film for the people of Malegaon, by the people...

TMDb: View on TMDb

Superboys of Malegaon (2025) – Movie Overview & Analysis-BollyFlix

Movie Details 

• Full Name: Superboys of Malegaon (2025)
• Language: Hindi
• Budget: Not Publicly Disclosed (Estimated to be modest)
• Revenue: Approx. $156,781 (Worldwide, as of March 2025)
• Runtime: 127 Minutes (2 Hours 7 Minutes)
• Release Date: February 28, 2025 (India Theatrical & later Prime Video)
• Genres: Biography, Comedy, Drama
• Cast: Adarsh Gourav, Vineet Kumar Singh, Shashank Arora, Anuj Singh Duhan, Saqib Ayub, Manjiri Pupala, Riddhi Kumar
• Directors: Reema Kagti
• Screenplay: Varun Grover, Reema Kagti
• Studios & Producers: Amazon MGM Studios, Excel Entertainment, Tiger Baby (Producers: Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti)
• Voice Cast: Not Applicable
• Animation & Style: Not Applicable

OFFICIAL IMAGES

Plot Summary

“Superboys of Malegaon” is an uplifting biographical comedy-drama that takes audiences to the heart of Malegaon, a small Indian city about five hours from Mumbai, where cinema is a cherished escape from daily struggles. The film is based on the remarkable true story of Nasir Shaikh (Adarsh Gourav), a self-taught filmmaker and video parlor owner, whose life was previously chronicled in the acclaimed 2008 documentary “Supermen of Malegaon.” Set in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the narrative follows Nasir and his ragtag group of friends—including the loyal Shafique (Shashank Arora) and the writer-purist Farogh (Vineet Kumar Singh)—as they dare to dream big. Despite extremely limited resources, they embark on a journey to create their own films, making hilarious, no-budget spoofs of iconic Bollywood and Hollywood blockbusters like “Sholay” and “Superman.” Their unique filmmaking style, characterized by ingenious improvisation (“jugaad”), amateur actors, and a distinct local flavor, gradually builds a parallel film industry within their community. The film is a poignant yet humorous exploration of their passion, perseverance, friendships, and the profound impact of cinema on their lives, ultimately asking profound questions about what constitutes art and who truly gets to create it, celebrating the indomitable human spirit that thrives against all odds.

Cast & Crew

“Superboys of Malegaon” features a compelling ensemble cast that brings depth and authenticity to its real-life inspired characters. Adarsh Gourav, in the lead role as Nasir Shaikh, delivers a nuanced and heartfelt performance, capturing the essence of the aspiring filmmaker’s passion, struggles, and unwavering belief. His portrayal is a cornerstone of the film’s emotional resonance. Vineet Kumar Singh, as the writer Farogh, provides a strong and grounded presence, balancing the group’s idealism with practical realities. Shashank Arora, portraying Shafique, offers a memorable performance as the loyal friend, often injecting humor and heart into the narrative. The ensemble also includes Anuj Singh Duhan as Akram and Saqib Ayub as Shakeel, who round out the core group of “superboys,” each contributing distinct personalities to the communal filmmaking endeavor. Manjiri Pupala and Riddhi Kumar provide vital supporting roles, adding layers to the Malegaon community. Director Reema Kagti masterfully guides her cast, extracting authentic and heartfelt performances that make the characters relatable and their journey genuinely inspiring. The collective chemistry of the cast is a significant factor in the film’s success, making their shared dream feel palpable and moving.

Critical & Audience Response

“Superboys of Malegaon (2025)” received widespread critical acclaim and a largely positive audience reception. Critics lauded the film as a “must-watch” and a “heartwarming tale of friendship, faith, and films.” Many praised its authentic portrayal of small-town dreams and the sheer passion for cinema, calling it a refreshing departure from mainstream Bollywood tropes. The performances, particularly from Adarsh Gourav, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Shashank Arora, were highlighted as masterclasses in acting, injecting sincerity and depth into their characters. Director Reema Kagti was commended for her sensitive and engaging storytelling, transforming a simple premise into an inspiring narrative. The screenplay by Varun Grover and Reema Kagti received accolades for its sharp, empathetic writing, its class commentary, and its exploration of male friendship. While some minor criticisms mentioned that the film’s niche subject might not appeal to all, and that it occasionally veered between fact and fiction uneasily, the overwhelming sentiment was positive. Audiences resonated with the film’s feel-good nature and its powerful message about resilience and pursuing dreams against all odds, leading to strong word-of-mouth and a generally high rating across various platforms. The film’s premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024 further solidified its critical standing.

Direction & Cinematography

Director Reema Kagti showcases a masterful command over storytelling in “Superboys of Malegaon,” transforming a real-life inspired narrative into a compelling and heartfelt cinematic experience. Her direction is characterized by a strong sense of authenticity, meticulously recreating the milieu of Malegaon in the late 1990s and early 2000s without resorting to caricature. Kagti skillfully balances the film’s biographical, comedic, and dramatic elements, ensuring that the humor arises naturally from the characters’ situations and the drama maintains emotional depth. She allows the performances to breathe, fostering a believable camaraderie among the lead actors. The narrative flow is fluid, keeping the audience engaged with the “jugaad” filmmaking process. For cinematography, Swapnil Sonawane delivers truly exceptional work. His camera captures the raw energy and vibrant spirit of Malegaon, using lighting and framing to create a distinct visual palette that feels both nostalgic and immersive. The scenes depicting the amateur filmmaking process are shot with a keen eye for detail, highlighting the resourcefulness and passion of the characters. Sonawane’s ability to create cinematic moments even within the constraints of a small-town setting adds significantly to the film’s charm and authenticity. The overall visual style underscores the film’s message about finding magic in the mundane, making the film a visual treat.

Music & Background Score

The music of “Superboys of Malegaon” is primarily composed by the renowned duo Sachin-Jigar. Their score and songs play a vital role in elevating the film’s emotional core and comedic beats. The track “Bande,” released as the film’s first single, is a powerful and inspiring anthem that perfectly encapsulates the themes of resilience, passion, and dreaming big. Sung by Divya Kumar, Sayee Gangan, and Sachin-Jigar, with poignant lyrics by Javed Akhtar, “Bande” serves as a musical tribute to the indomitable spirit of the Malegaon filmmakers. The background score is subtle yet impactful, enhancing the narrative without overpowering it. It effectively complements the comedic situations, builds emotional resonance during dramatic moments, and evokes a sense of nostalgia for the era depicted. The music is an integral part of the storytelling, helping to convey the characters’ aspirations and struggles. The sound design also contributes to the film’s authenticity, immersing the audience in the world of Malegaon and its unique filmmaking culture. Overall, the musical contributions are well-integrated and serve to amplify the film’s heartwarming and inspiring message.

Visuals & Special Effects

“Superboys of Malegaon” focuses on grounded and authentic visuals that enhance its biographical drama and comedic elements, rather than relying heavily on elaborate special effects. The film’s visual appeal comes from its meticulous recreation of the late 1990s and early 2000s Malegaon, bringing out the vibrant local culture and the simplicity of life in a small town. The production design is spot-on, from the look of the video parlors to the makeshift film sets, all contributing to the film’s realistic yet charming aesthetic. The cinematography by Swapnil Sonawane is particularly lauded for its ability to capture the raw essence of the location and the expressions of its characters. While there are no grand CGI spectacles, the film cleverly uses practical effects and creative framing to depict the “jugaad” style of filmmaking, showcasing how the Malegaon boys achieve cinematic feats with minimal resources. The visual storytelling emphasizes the characters’ ingenuity and their genuine love for cinema, making the film’s visual journey as inspiring as its narrative. The use of natural light and authentic set pieces further immerses the audience in their world, making the film visually compelling and heartfelt.

Editing & Screenplay

The editing of “Superboys of Malegaon,” while not explicitly credited to a widely known editor in public domain, is seamlessly integrated into the narrative flow. The film maintains a brisk pace that keeps the audience engaged throughout its 127-minute runtime, ensuring that no moment feels stretched or dull. The transitions between different phases of Nasir’s life and the various filmmaking endeavors are handled smoothly, contributing to a cohesive and immersive viewing experience. The screenplay, co-written by Varun Grover and Reema Kagti, is a major strength of the film. It is lauded for its originality, sensitivity, and depth. The script brilliantly adapts the true story, imbuing it with humor, heartfelt emotion, and subtle social commentary. It builds compelling character arcs for Nasir, Farogh, and Shafique, making their dreams and struggles relatable. The dialogues are sharp, witty, and authentic to the Malegaon dialect, adding layers of charm and realism. The screenplay’s ability to celebrate the “underdog” story while subtly questioning the gatekeepers of art makes it profound. It highlights themes of friendship, perseverance, and the universal aspiration to create, making “Superboys of Malegaon” a well-crafted narrative that resonates deeply with its audience.

Positives / What Works

“Superboys of Malegaon” stands out for its highly inspiring and authentic true story, which celebrates the unwavering passion for filmmaking against all odds. Adarsh Gourav’s stellar performance as Nasir Shaikh is a major highlight, embodying the character’s dreams and determination. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast, with Vineet Kumar Singh and Shashank Arora delivering equally compelling portrayals, fostering believable on-screen chemistry. Reema Kagti’s sensitive and nuanced direction ensures a balanced narrative, blending humor, drama, and biography seamlessly. The witty and empathetic screenplay by Varun Grover and Reema Kagti is commendable for its sharp dialogues and insightful social commentary. Furthermore, the film’s atmospheric cinematography by Swapnil Sonawane beautifully captures the essence of Malegaon, and the music by Sachin-Jigar adds significant emotional depth. Overall, the film is a heartwarming ode to resilience, creativity, and friendship.

Negatives / What Doesn’t Work

While “Superboys of Malegaon” received overwhelmingly positive reviews, some minor critiques were noted. A few reviewers felt that the film, at times, landed uneasily between fact and fiction, occasionally blurring the lines of its biographical inspiration for dramatic effect. Given its specific niche subject matter – amateur filmmaking in a small town – some suggested it might have a limited universal appeal compared to more mainstream Bollywood fare, which could explain its relatively modest box office figures. While the film’s pacing is generally praised, there might be very occasional instances where the narrative feels slightly drawn out, though this is a minor point. The film’s primary strength lies in its heartfelt story and performances, and its few weaknesses are largely overshadowed by its overall positive impact and critical success.

Final Verdict / Conclusion

“Superboys of Malegaon” is an absolute gem that transcends its simple premise to deliver a truly inspiring and deeply moving cinematic experience. It’s a beautifully crafted tribute to the indomitable spirit of human creativity, friendship, and the sheer love for movies. Reema Kagti’s sensitive direction, coupled with Varun Grover’s brilliant screenplay, ensures that the film resonates on multiple levels—as a heartfelt biography, a charming comedy, and a poignant drama. The exceptional performances by Adarsh Gourav, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Shashank Arora breathe life into their characters, making their journey incredibly relatable and emotionally engaging. While its commercial performance might have been modest due to its niche subject, “Superboys of Malegaon” is a critically acclaimed masterpiece that reminds us of the power of dreams and the magic that can be created with passion and ingenuity, regardless of resources. It’s a must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling and the underdog spirit.

Movie Rating

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