Netflix’s new comedy Best of the Best takes the familiar college comedy formula and gives it a vibrant with high-energy Bollywood makeover. Directed by Lena Khan and penned by comedians Hasan Minhaj and Prashanth Venkataramanujam the film explores the cutthroat world of competitive Bollywood fusion dance on American campuses.
The story follows childhood best friends Maya (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) and Anjali (Priyanka Kedia) as they enroll at UCLA. Maya is fiercely ambitious and blunt while Anjali is conventionally bubbly. Together they join the campus dance team and only to clash with team leader Ronak (Ankur Rathee). While Ronak favors traditional, wedding-style choreography, Maya insists they need a modern also fresh routine to win the national championship.
Though the plot follows a predictable underdog trajectory the film thrives on its whip-smart script, Gen Z authenticity and sharp diaspora humor. Director Lena Khan intentionally steers away from tired tropes, allowing South Asian characters to exist without being relegated to the "nerdy sidekick" stereotype. In a clever flip and the film even features a "token white guy" in the traditionally marginalized nerdy role.
The true star of the film is its breathtaking choreography. Blending Bharatanatyam, Kuthu and Pakistani styles, the dance sequences are phenomenal. To prepare, Ramakrishnan underwent months of intensive athletic training to capture the demanding physical performance. The film culminates in a brilliant, show-stopping routine involving a heist of the Koh-i-Noor diamond a sequence that powerfully bridges modern youth culture with traditional roots.
Best of the Best is a fast-paced, joyful celebration of sisterhood and cultural pride. It proves that even a predictable genre formula can dazzle audiences when executed with infectious energy, stellar performances and a deep respect for its cultural heritage.
