- By Srishti Pandey
- Thu, 25 Apr 2024 07:00 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Dil Dosti Dilemma Review: Season 1 of the web series with seven episodes delves into the intricacies of friendship, love and personal growth, set against the backdrop of Bangalore's bustling streets. Adapted from Andaleeb Wajid's novel 'Asmara’s Summer', the Amazon Prime Video original series offers a reflective journey through the lives of its characters, presenting a Bildungsroman narrative that resonates with audiences.
Rating: 3/5
Why or Why Not Watch Dil Dosti Dilemma?
The story revolves around Asmara (Anushka Sen), whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is sent to Tibbri Road from her affluent life on Riddley Road in Bangalore and is denied an exciting summer in Canada. This shift in her circumstances exposes her to a world of diverse experiences, friendships and challenges, ultimately shaping her perspective in profound ways.
One of the series' strongest aspects is its portrayal of the friendship between Asmara, Naina (Revathi Pillai), and Tania (Elisha Mayor). Each character is portrayed with depth and authenticity, reflecting the complexities of teenage friendships. Naina's quest for social validation and Tania's struggle with differences between her parents add layers to the narrative, making the characters relatable and compelling.
Written by Anuradha Tiwari, Bugs Bhargava Krishna, Raghav Dutt and Manjiri Vijay Pupala, Director Debbie Rao skillfully expands the storyline from the novel, allowing to witness the journeys of all three friends. This expansion provides a holistic view of their growth and challenges, making the narrative more engaging and immersive.
While the series touches upon important social issues, such as the need for open communication and understanding between generations, it occasionally feels predictable in its approach. It seems like in its brief seven-episode run, the show attempts to cover a wide range of emotions and deliver them. Additionally, the character of Akhtar Begum (Suhasini Mulay), representing societal rigidity, could have been more nuanced or explored further to add depth to the narrative.
The series also shines a light on the theme of personal growth and self-discovery. Asmara's transformation from a teenager to a more mature and self-aware individual is depicted with sensitivity and realism. Her interactions with the residents of Tibbri Road and the challenges she faces along the way serve as a catalyst for her personal development, highlighting the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Her bond with her maternal grandparents (Naani - Tanvi Azmi and Naana - Shishir Sharma) has been shown beautifully – making it possible to reminisce about the good old days of summer spent at one’s grandparents’ homes. Her relationships with her friends (or more!) at Tibbri Road - Farzaan (Kush Jotwani) and Rukhsana (Vishakha Pandey) are beautifully portrayed, showcasing the strength and depth of their bond.
Dil Dosti Dilemma Season 1 is a thoughtful portrayal of friendship and growth, offering moments of reflection and introspection. While it may not be without its flaws, its sincere narrative and performances make it a worthwhile one-time watch for those interested in coming-of-age stories.
