Nadaaniyan Movie Review

Star Cast: Ibrahim Ali Khan, Khushi Kapoor, Jugal Hansraj, Dia Mirza, Suniel Shetty, Mahima Chaudhary
Director: Shauna Gautam
Streaming on: Netflix
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)

Script Analysis:

Nadaaniyan keeps things straightforward — no convoluted subplots or unnecessary twists. At its heart, it’s about two very different youngsters from clashing backgrounds who strike a deal that slowly turns into something real.

Written by Ishani Moitra, Jehan Handa, and Shauna Gautam, the film’s strength lies in its relatability and simplicity. With no forced poetry or dramatic monologues, it speaks Gen-Z’s language — fast, witty, expressive, and unapologetically digital.

The story of Pia hiring Arjun to act as her fake boyfriend isn’t new, but its execution feels fresh and relevant. It focuses on emotional dilemmas, career priorities, and evolving relationships in a world where therapy, self-respect, and ambition take center stage — a welcome shift from old-school love dramas.

Star Performance:

Ibrahim Ali Khan is the standout. He brings back the lost charm of the classic Bollywood chocolate boy but adds a Gen-Z twist — grounded, goofy, and emotionally aware. His sincerity is reminiscent of early Sidharth Malhotra with hints of Saif Ali Khan’s charm.

Khushi Kapoor is a total Disney-style diva with a modern soul. As Pia, she owns her space with ease. Her chemistry with Ibrahim is smooth and believable — no over-the-top dramatics, just genuine young love.

Veteran support elevates the film:

Jugal Hansraj is a cool Gen-Z dad.
Dia Mirza brings emotional depth as Arjun’s mother.
Suniel Shetty and Mahima Chaudhary portray a broken family dynamic with maturity.
Archana Puran Singh as the ever-fun principal is delightful.
Meezan Jaffrey makes a short but memorable appearance.

Direction & Music:

Director Shauna Gautam brings a soft, Disney-like aesthetic to this Netflix rom-com. The tone is light, the pace is brisk, and the emotions are rooted in today’s world. She successfully balances fun, emotional growth, and relationship realism — a rare mix in current Bollywood teen films.

The music is a winner. Every track fits the mood and enhances the story — especially Pag Ghungroo Baandh, which channels Student of the Year energy without feeling like a copy.

The Last Word:

Nadaaniyan is a warm hug of a film — innocent yet smart, simple yet self-aware. It celebrates the quirks, priorities, and emotional wisdom of today’s generation.

Verdict: A feel-good, coming-of-age rom-com perfect for Gen-Z and anyone who enjoys a sweet, sincere love story without the clichés.