‘Superboys of Malegaon’ movie review: Falls short of being super, plays it too safe

'Superboys of Malegaon' Review: A Heartfelt Attempt That Plays It Too Safe

The much-anticipated Superboys of Malegaon, a quirky underdog story inspired by the small-town passion for filmmaking, arrives with a promising premise but struggles to soar beyond mediocrity. Directed by first-time filmmaker Rehan Khan, the movie attempts to capture the charm and chaos of Malegaon’s DIY cinema culture but ultimately plays it too safe, leaving audiences wanting more.  

The film follows three young friends—Aslam (Faizal Khan), Babu (Shadab Kamal), and Chotu (Nitin Sharma)—who dream of making their own superhero movie despite limited resources and societal skepticism. Their journey, filled with humorous mishaps and heartfelt moments, mirrors the real-life struggles of aspiring filmmakers in India’s small towns.  

While the performances are earnest, particularly Faizal Khan’s endearing portrayal of the determined Aslam, the script lacks depth. The humor, though occasionally charming, relies too heavily on slapstick, and the emotional beats feel predictable. "The film had potential, but it never fully embraces the madness and ingenuity of its real-life inspirations," noted critic Priya Menon. "It’s like a superhero who never quite learns to fly."  

Visually, Superboys of Malegaon captures the dusty, vibrant streets of its setting well, but the cinematography and pacing feel uneven. Some scenes drag, while others—like a hilarious low-budget action sequence—shine brightly but are too few.  

The biggest letdown is the film’s reluctance to take risks. Unlike the real Malegaon filmmakers, who are known for their bold, no-holds-barred creativity, Superboys sticks to a formulaic underdog template. "It’s sweet and watchable, but it doesn’t leave a lasting impact," said audience member Rakesh Mehta. "You root for the boys, but the film itself doesn’t become the hero."  

For fans of small-town stories, Superboys of Malegaon offers a few laughs and a warm, if forgettable, experience. But for a film about dreaming big, it sadly doesn’t dream big enough.