Directed by Zoya Akhtar, Netflix’s The Archies has taken the audience on a nostalgic journey to the fictional town of Riverdale in 1960s India. The movie features the Bollywood debut of Agastya Nanda, Suhana Khan, and Khushi Kapoor. It has also garnered attention for its unique take on the iconic Archie comics.
This coming-of-age film provides a unique perspective on the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel, and Dilton, who are favorites in the community. Through the lens of the Anglo-Indian community, the movie explores themes of rebellion, heartbreak, freedom, friendship, and love.
Let’s dive into how The Archies unfolded and if the group was successful in saving the iconic green park.
What happened with Betty, Veronica, and Archie’s love triangle?
At the core of The Archies is the picturesque town of Riverdale, founded by Englishman Sir John Riverdale and his Indian wife, Sitara. Their love story led to the creation of a haven for Anglo-Indian kids. The film unfolds against the backdrop of the class of ’64, capturing the essence of life in post-independence India.
A significant plot point revolves around Mr. Hiram Lodge’s ambitious plans to reshape Riverdale. As a businessman, Mr. Lodge unveils proposals for building plazas and hotels. The most contentious among these is the transformation of historic Green Park. Despite its cultural and historical significance, Mr. Lodge, along with the local council member Mr. Dawson, seeks to build a hotel that will destroy the beloved park.
The story takes an emotional turn as Betty, Veronica, and Archie find themselves entangled in a complex love triangle. Soon after, financial troubles force Betty’s father, Hal Cooper, to close his bookstore. The financial trouble is caused by Veronica’s father, Mr. Lodge.
To build plazas and stores, the latter proposed higher rental pay, which ultimately led the landlords to ask the tenants to either match the rent or leave. Unaware of her family’s involvement, Veronica confronts her mother. As a result, Mr. Hal gets a job at the new bookstore.
After a series of events, Betty decides to tell Veronica how Archie double-dated the duo. Furious upon knowing, the pair confront Archie and ask him to stop doing things that would create a rift between them. However, they agree to remain friends.
Did The Archies save beloved Green Park?
As the story unfolds, Archie and his friends embark on a mission to save Green Park from the clutches of the businessman and dubious Mr. Dawson. The plot thickens when they discover a hidden clause that could thwart Mr. Lodge’s plans—getting thousands of signatures from residents who oppose the construction.
The teenagers launch a relentless campaign, going door to door, organizing fairs, and utilizing Dilton’s radio to mobilize public support. In a surprising turn of events, the citizens of Riverdale united against the construction. Despite losing the battle, Mr. Lodge finds solace in the fact that his daughter stood by her stance. In conclusion, Archies and his friends reflect on the profound lessons they’ve learned.
The Archies is currently streaming on Netflix.
