Nadaaniyan Movie Review, Nadaaniyan Movie Review, Nadaaniyan Movie Review
Bollywood’s latest teen rom-com, Nadaaniyan, arrived on Netflix with a fresh-faced cast and the promise of youthful charm. Starring Ibrahim Ali Khan and Khushi Kapoor in their lead debuts, the film follows a classic opposites-attract storyline—Pia, a privileged South Delhi girl, hires Arjun, a Noida boy from a middle-class background, to be her fake boyfriend. What starts as a business deal soon leads to unexpected emotions, misunderstandings, and self-discovery.
On paper, this setup has all the ingredients for a fun, heartfelt watch. However, Nadaaniyan struggles to bring depth and authenticity to its narrative. While the film attempts to explore themes like family pressure, self-worth, and social divides, it doesn’t quite manage to leave a lasting impact. Instead, it leans heavily on familiar tropes, predictable twists, and a screenplay that feels more like a surface-level glimpse into teenage life rather than a genuine exploration of it.
Performances: A Mixed Bag
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Ibrahim Ali Khan’s debut as Arjun shows potential, but his performance lacks the natural ease that makes a character truly memorable. There are moments where he shines, but at times, his delivery feels a little stiff, as if he’s still finding his comfort zone in front of the camera. On the other hand, Khushi Kapoor, who plays Pia, has a confident screen presence, but her character lacks the depth needed to make us truly root for her. Their chemistry is there, but it doesn’t quite ignite the spark that makes rom-coms unforgettable.
The supporting cast brings a mix of nostalgia and experience. Suniel Shetty, as Pia’s father, Rajat Jaisingh, plays his role with conviction while Mahima Chaudhry, as Pia’s mother, Neelu Jaisingh, has a few heartfelt moments, but her presence in the story feels underutilized. On Arjun’s side, Dia Mirza and Jugal Hansraj play his supportive parents, Nandini and Sanjay Mehta. While they share a few touching scenes with their son, their characters could have been developed further to add emotional weight to Arjun’s struggles.
One of the film’s most unexpected surprises is Archana Puran Singh reprising her iconic role as Ms. Braganza Malhotra from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998). Although it is no longer a surprise, thanks to social media. And yes, her appearance is brief, it brings a nostalgic charm, even if it doesn’t add much to the story.
What Works & What Doesn’t
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✔ Visually Pleasing – The film boasts vibrant cinematography, stylish costumes, and an aesthetically pleasing portrayal of Delhi’s contrasting lifestyles.
✔ Lighthearted Moments – There are a few sweet and funny scenes that work well, especially in the first half.
❌ Superficial Storytelling – The film touches on important themes but doesn’t dive deep enough to make them meaningful.
❌ Lack of Emotional Connection – The characters’ struggles feel glossed over, making it hard for the audience to truly connect with them.
Final Verdict: A Time-pass Watch, But Nothing Extraordinary
Nadaaniyan isn’t an unwatchable film—it has its moments of fun, style, and youthful energy. But with a stronger script, more fleshed-out characters, and a little more heart, it could have been so much more. If you’re in the mood for a light, easygoing rom-com, it might work as a one-time watch. However, for those looking for something fresh and emotionally engaging, this one might leave you wanting more.
Nadaaniyan Movie Review, Nadaaniyan Movie Review, Nadaaniyan Movie Review
