‘Dil Dosti Dilemma' Review: Anushka Sen's teen drama is cliched and less fun

‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ Review: Anushka Sen’s teen drama is cliched and less fun

If you’re craving some chill time and in need of a show that’s personal, then look no further than Prime Video’s freshest delight – ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’, brought to you by Debbie Rao.

‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ ventures into the tangled web of affluent youth navigating through the complexities of their lives in the vibrant backdrop of Bangalore. The show’s premise revolves around three friends – Asmara, Tania, and Naina – whose seemingly charmed lives are laden with inner conflicts and familial dilemmas.

Asmara, portrayed by Anushka Sen, finds herself at a crossroads between her familial obligations and personal desires. Her portrayal, while adequate, lacks the depth needed to truly captivate the audience. However, the true gems of the show are Tanvi Azmi and Shishir Sharma, who portray Asmara’s grandparents with finesse, infusing the narrative with warmth and authenticity.Â

The central storyline revolving around the intertwined lives of Asmara, Tania, and Naina is compelling, albeit familiar. While Asmara is dealing with her grandparents, Tania and Naina grapple with their own demons. Tania, portrayed by Elisha Mayor, struggles to come to terms with her parents’ alleged extramarital affairs, while Naina, played by Revathi Pillai, finds herself entangled in a tumultuous relationship with the charming yet manipulative Armaan. The dynamics between the three friends are portrayed with authenticity, capturing the nuances of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal.

One of the show’s strengths lies in its ability to explore relatable themes amidst the opulence of its setting. Asmara’s journey of self-discovery in her grandparents’ neighbourhood adds depth to her character, while her budding friendship with Rukhsana, who used to be her childhood friend, introduces an element of ‘personal touch’ to the narrative. Asmara also finds comfort in Farzaan, played convincingly by Kush Jotwani. Jotwani’s portrayal exudes charm and charisma, hinting at his potential to become India’s next heartthrob.

While ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ excels in many aspects, it’s not without its shortcomings, particularly in its portrayal of contemporary youth culture. One notable flaw lies in the exaggerated depiction of Gen Z characters, who seem to feign ignorance of Hindi and rely solely on retail therapy as their preferred means of coping with life’s challenges.

By reducing the characters’ emotional complexity to a superficial obsession with material possessions, the show misses an opportunity to explore more nuanced aspects of their personalities and struggles.Â

Watch the trailer here:

Despite its shortcomings, ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ manages to resonate with viewers to some extent through its exploration of friendship, love, and identity. The dynamic performances of its cast, particularly Tanvi Azmi, Shishir Sharma, and Suhasini Mulay, elevate the viewing experience and leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ presents a captivating tale amidst the glitz and glamour of Bangalore’s high society. While it does stumble in certain areas of character development and portrayal, its examination of universal themes and standout performances manage to keep viewers engaged. So, while it may not be flawless, it’s still a worthwhile pick for those seeking a dose of Indian drama.

2.5 stars out of 5 for ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’.Â

The show is streaming on Prime Video.