Teen romance in cinema oscillates between two recurring approaches: the sugary idealization of youthful emotions and the attempt to capture the complexity of contemporary relationships. “Naadaniyaan” leans toward the latter, aiming for a more authentic portrayal of the dynamics between young people from different worlds. However, the film never transforms into a truly innovative exercise. It prefers the comfort of predictability over any narrative ambition, resulting in an experience that, while pleasant, is unlikely to linger in the memory.
The story unfolds around everyday gestures and subtle interactions, avoiding the exaggerated melodrama that often permeates the genre. In theory, this choice could bring a welcome freshness to the film, but the script remains superficial. The dialogue lacks depth, emotional conflicts are only hinted at, and the characters’ arcs never reach a level that elicits genuine identification. In the end, the film presents itself as contemporary but hesitates to delve into the emotions it sets out to explore.
Visually, “Naadaniyaan” tries to align itself with a Hollywood-inspired aesthetic, which ultimately dilutes its identity. The direction opts for a stylized approach, but without an authorial perspective to justify it. The inconsistent editing harms the pacing, and the sound mixing — especially the Hindi dubbing — feels artificial, creating an unnecessary barrier between the film and its audience. Rather than contributing to an engaging atmosphere, these elements reinforce the impression of a generic product with no distinguishing characteristics.
The cast does what it can with the available material but struggles to transcend the limitations of the script. Khushi Kapoor shows some charisma and delivers impactful moments, but she still lacks the presence needed to carry a convincing lead role. Ibrahim Ali Khan, in his debut, delivers an inconsistent performance, alternating between exaggerated expressiveness and a lack of naturalness that undermines some scenes. None of the performances completely spoil the experience, but there are no standout moments that elevate the film beyond expectations.
Narratively, “Naadaniyaan” attempts to capture the language and digital habits of Gen Z, relying on quick dialogue and a romance without excessive discursiveness. This direction helps to connect with the target audience but also limits the story’s reach. Predictability dominates the plot, which avoids risks and stays within a comfortable structure, lacking any truly impactful moments.
If the goal was to offer a straightforward teen romance, the film accomplishes that without major missteps. However, this very simplicity is its greatest weakness. In a landscape saturated with similar stories, “Naadaniyaan” does little to justify its relevance. For viewers seeking a light, transient distraction, it may suffice. But for those hoping for something that transcends the formula and offers a more engaging take on young love, it is unlikely they will find anything memorable here.
Film: Naadaniyaan
Director: Shauna Gautam
Year: 2025
Genres: Comedy/Drama/Romance
Rating: 7/10