Review: 'Class' is a culturally relevant sinister saga rising above being just another high-school drama

Ashim Ahluwalia paints an Indianized version of "Elite," transcending you into Hampton High School's clandestine world and among the students of various classes, whose lives at one point intersect transforming the youth-adult drama into a sinister thriller.

Class Review

Class Review

The next Netflix production "Class," directed by Ashim Ahluwalia, is an official adaptation of the 2018 Spanish series "Elite." When we explore adaptations, we frequently seek the same product, wrapped in a different cover. As it turns out, "Class" is a revamped version of the original product with whole new packaging and additional features. A show which isn't devoid of any facet or genre. From being a stylish young-adult drama to a gritty murder mystery, it serves you everything, and having had the chance to see it beforehand, here is is what I feel about the show-

The Plot

The Plot

The centerpiece of 'Class' is India's Hampton High School, which embraces the richie-richs of Delhi. The narrative escalates when Dheeraj, Ballu, and Saba, three students from working-class households join the young affluent students after their old school is burned down by the fire. A murder mystery frames it all, pitting the three newbies against the rich elites, and the ensuing drama exposes the nasty side of the 'spoilt brats of the rich dads'.

The Cultural Revamping

The Cultural Revamping

The potential of "Class" to stand out and ingratiate itself into the cultural intricacies of the Indian audiences is what makes it a successful adaptation. The writers have 'Indianized' the idea, underlining everything from caste discrimination in Dheeraj's scenario to religious prejudice as evidenced by Saba being a Muslim girl. The use of slang and swearing also reflects a common root, which enhances the show's emotional resonance and relevancy.

Of course, there are instances when things look "wannabe" and 'place for the sake', however, in the end, it doesn't overshadow the essence of this dark school and Delhi.

A Lot More Than High School Drama

A Lot More Than High School Drama

Taking what has already been done and making it better is what Class does best. Sex, murder, drugs, ascent along the social ladder, and betrayal are all present, but with a unique and captivating voice.

The murder is the overarching storyline but not certainly a significant one. A sequence of one of the students being interrogated by the investigating officer and detailing the events that led to the killing occurs in almost every episode. The scenes do hold some thrilling passages, but ultimately they lack the emotional weight that the finely drawn lives of the kids before the tragedy offers.

The Performances

The Performance

Again, one of the most beautiful parts of the show is the character development. Despite having like 6-8 set of people with an equal part and relevance in the premise, it is usually difficult to make each one of them stand out in their own show. Zeyn Shaw as Veer actually moves the path of development when your perception towards him changes from hate to acceptability to pity. Anjali Sivaraman as Suhani nails it and makes you feel every bit of the emotions she portrays. Ayesha Kanga as Yashika maintains her poise and aura throughout. Piyush Khati as Dheeraj gets a well-paced character arc and he is best when it comes to showcasing the battle he fights with himself. 

Gurfateh Pirzada as Neeru is the bad guy who has his fair share of ups and lows; he still has scope to evolve as the character moves forward with a spotlight in a future season. Cwaayal Singh as Balli is the life of the show for sure. His rowdy aura, one-liners, and personality is a vibe we can resonate with. Naina Bhan as Koel knows what to do. Keeping it sultry and owning her desires makes her one bold character in the show. 

Moses Koul as Sharan, Chintan Rachchh as Faruq, Madhyama Segal as Saba, and Chayan Chopra as Dhruv, all keep it raw and do a decent job.

The Setting and BGM

The Setting andBGM

Another thing that makes "Class" a terrific adaption is how skilfully a contrast is drawn to illustrate how the lives of the three newcomers and the brats intersect at different times in time. You can feel the discrepancy, from the lavishly built homes to Dheeraj and Neeru's frazzled homes. In one scenario, Dhruv is stoned and pauses to admire the magnificence of an ancient monument. You find it amusing how these brats have been living in their own universe while staying in the city. 

The background music (BGM) is flawless and accentuates the tension as needed. Some of the songs featured in the episodes are so outstanding that you nearly won't notice the moving track and start vibing on the songs. 

The Verdict

Ashim Ahluwalia paints an Indianized version of "Elite", transcending you into Hampton High School's clandestine world and among the students of various classes, whose lives at one point intersect transforming the youth-adult drama into a sinister thriller.

Anyone looking for something fresh but relatable should watch this without a doubt.

Rating- *** 1/2 stars (3.5/5)

The series is produced by Bodhitree Multimedia. Since its inception, it has produced more than 30 shows for the majority of major broadcasters and OTT platforms.

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Comments (2)

Isn’t it just cheap copy of elite?looks like netflix thinks people are too dumb here not to make such obvious connectionx

1 years ago

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