Why do Indians feel nostalgic about an American comic book - The Archies?

Netflix is set to release a musical adaptation of the long-established American comic, Archie Comics, later this year. The film, titled The Archies, takes place in 1960s India and explores teenage themes of love, heartbreak, and rebellion within the Anglo-Indian community. The trailer has already garnered over 800,000 views on YouTube. The news of the film has sparked mixed reactions among fans of the comic. Some believe the Indian context will benefit the story, while others criticize the film for not accurately representing Indian characters. Archie Comics had a significant influence on Indian youth in the late 1980s and 90s. Many described it as their first introduction to Americana and finding their idea of American culture through the comics. The comic became a social currency in schools, with children discussing plotlines and characters. The lively atmosphere and distinct characters of Archie Comics influenced many subsequent young-adult shows and films. The comic introduced simple plotlines and a love triangle, captivating readers with relatable teenage issues and the charm of the titular character and his friends. While Archie Comics lost popularity in America towards the end of the 20th century, publishers tried to reinvent the series by adding diverse characters and exploring darker plotlines tied to current issues. Archie Comics have also been adapted into television shows, including the popular series Riverdale. Indian fans have mixed opinions about these new offerings, with some longing for the playfulness and simplicity of the older comics, while others believe there will always be an audience for Archie due to its relatability and iconic characters.