Currently, OTT platforms are filled with thrillers, gangster dramas, and serious subjects. This is where this light-hearted drama stands out amidst it all.
The story follows Asmara, a young, rich, and spoiled brat who is forced to spend her summer holidays with her grandparents in a local neighborhood of Bangalore as punishment. To maintain her image, she lies to her friends, claiming to be in Canada, while she navigates her life with new challenges, relationships, and explores love in her new environment.
It's a simple story that doesn't claim to be unique, yet it's the performances and execution that truly connect with you. With just 7 episodes, it doesn't demand much of your time, but you'll find yourself thoroughly invested. The writing is tight, allowing every character to make a special place in your heart. A few liberties must be overlooked, such as how Asmara seems to know everything, giving life lessons despite being portrayed as confused herself, or how her friends suddenly shift from being brats to becoming inclusive.
Anushka Sen, as the lead, is the right choice for the role. She looks beautiful, and her mix of chirpiness and innocence is perfect for the character, though she stumbles a bit in emotional scenes. Kush Jotwani has a dashing personality and performs well. Vishakha Pandey is a treat to watch with her cute antics. Tanvi Azmi and Shishir Sharma as the grandparents perform brilliantly, as expected from seasoned actors. Revathi Pillai and Elisha Mayor, as friends, embody their characters well. A series of other supporting actors provide strong performances and are fine in their roles.
The nuances of the small neighborhood are captured well, allowing you to connect with the characters. The styling of Anushka and her friends is spot-on, and the transition from rich to middle-class through their clothing is well-executed. The way the title montage appears in each episode is a nice touch. The series ends on a note that hints at a second season.
This comedy-drama deserves your time, and you should definitely give it a shot, despite a few liberties. Don't expect an out-of-this-world storyline, but it certainly won't bore you.
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