Best Of The Best tells a refreshing, rare South Asian-American coming-of-age story
Bollywood meets Booksmart in Lena Khan’s flashy yet tender coming-of-age story, Netflix's Best Of The Best.
The film Best Of The Best offers a refreshing and rare South Asian-American coming-of-age story, blending Bollywood and Kollywood influences with original storytelling. Two childhood friends and recent UCLA freshmen, Maya (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) and Anjali (Priyanka Kedia), are drawn together by their shared love for dance. As they navigate the challenges of college life, they join the South Asian Student Association (SASA) and form the dance troupe UCLA Agni, aiming to compete in a collegiate-level championship.
Director Lena Khan pays homage to various aspects of South Asian cinema while still maintaining a unique perspective. The film features impressive choreography by Joya Kazi, showcasing a range of dance styles from Bollywood to kuthu. Ramakrishnan and Kedia deliver strong performances as the central protagonists, whose friendship and rivalry are palpable.
The movie explores themes of cultural identity and the impact of tiger parenting, without falling into clichés. It highlights the importance of representation and the struggles faced by South Asian-Americans. Best Of The Best is a rare and engaging portrayal of a South Asian-American community, set to premiere on Netflix on September 18, 2026.
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