Ananya Panday’s debut series, Call Me Bae, now streaming on Prime Video, invites viewers into a high-octane world of glamour and personal evolution. With Colin D’Cunha at the helm, this series attempts to blend whimsy with profound themes, offering a narrative as sparkling as its lead.
Synopsis:
In Call Me Bae, Ananya Panday takes on the role of Bella Chowdhary, affectionately called Bae. The series unfolds against the backdrop of an opulent lifestyle that quickly crumbles, leaving Bae to navigate the tumultuous waters of self-reliance and personal growth. Following a scandal and the dissolution of her affluent marriage, Bae relocates from Delhi to Mumbai. Here, she embarks on a quest for meaning, grappling with the challenges of independence while securing a coveted internship at a prestigious media house.
What Works:
From the very first scene, Call Me Bae immerses viewers in a vibrant, fantasy-like universe, reminiscent of Emily in Paris with a Bollywood twist. The series thrives on its high-energy, visually stimulating approach, blending elements of romance, comedy, and personal transformation. Ananya Panday, as Bae, captures the essence of her character’s evolution with a mix of earnestness and charm. Her portrayal, though marked by a certain flamboyance, is heartfelt and sincere, revealing her ability to carry a leading role with both grace and vigor.
The supporting cast also contributes to the series’ appeal, particularly Vir Das, who offers a memorable performance as Satyajit Sen, a brash TV host whose interactions with Bae provide both comic relief and critical commentary on media ethics. The show’s foray into serious themes, such as loneliness, marital dissatisfaction, and the role of journalism, is both ambitious and timely. It tackles these issues with a blend of humor and gravity, initiating important discussions despite occasionally oversimplifying complex realities.
What Doesn’t Work:
However, Call Me Bae suffers from a lack of narrative cohesion. The series’ attempts to address multiple issues—from personal empowerment to responsible journalism—often result in a disjointed storyline. The script’s ambitious reach sometimes exceeds its grasp, leading to a cluttered plot that struggles to maintain focus. Director Colin D’Cunha’s broader strokes could have benefited from a more nuanced approach, ensuring that the series’ thematic explorations were given the depth they deserved.
The series’ fantasy-like portrayal of life may resonate with a younger audience but might seem overly idealistic to those in their late twenties and beyond. The portrayal of Bae’s journey, while engaging, occasionally veers into the realm of the improbable, with her rapid professional ascent and untroubled social interactions feeling somewhat unrealistic.
Bollywood Review Verdict:
Call Me Bae is a visually captivating and heartwarming series, buoyed by Ananya Panday’s spirited performance and a vibrant narrative. While its whimsical charm and exploration of significant themes are commendable, the series’ tendency to juggle too many storylines results in a somewhat fragmented experience. Despite its flaws, Call Me Bae offers an enjoyable escapade for those seeking lighthearted entertainment and an inspiring tale of self-discovery.
