Farrey

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*Fabulous Lives of the Rich & Brilliant Minds* is a scam thriller set in the high-pressure world of elite education, where the underprivileged try to outsmart the system to secure a better future. Directed by Soumendra Padhi, the film offers a nuanced look at the intersection of class divides and moral dilemmas, inspired by the 2017 Thai film *Bad Genius*.

The story revolves around Niyati (Alizeh Agnihotri), an orphan who rises to become a top student at one of the best schools in India. Alongside her is Aakash (Sahil Mehta), another scholarship student from a disadvantaged background. They are selected for the prestigious Oxford University entrance exam, which offers a life-changing opportunity. However, the temptation to exploit their academic prowess for money proves too strong when Niyati’s rich but academically weak friend, Chhavi (Prasanna Bisht), urges her to help cheat during exams for a hefty sum. The money is not for Niyati, but for the orphanage that raised her, which complicates her moral compass.

The film captures Niyati’s initial awe of the wealthy lifestyle, portraying her as a fish out of water. The transition from idealism to complicity in the scam is gradual but compelling. The first half of the film, which focuses on Niyati’s exploration of a world vastly different from her own, feels smooth and engaging. As the story progresses, however, it morphs into a morality play, with the director exploring the consequences of Niyati and Aakash’s choices. The stakes rise as they find themselves deep in the web of dishonesty, making the audience question whether they will stay true to their values or become consumed by their ambition.

The cast delivers strong performances, particularly Alizeh Agnihotri, who shines in her debut. Her portrayal of Niyati captures the character’s internal struggle and determination, making the audience root for her even as she walks a fine line between right and wrong. Sahil Mehta also impresses as Aakash, with his natural screen presence and sincere performance. Prasanna Bisht and Zeyn Shaw, playing the entitled rich kids, do well in showcasing their privilege and lack of awareness of the consequences their actions have on others.

Padhi’s direction keeps the pace tight, especially in the second half when the scam escalates. However, while the film successfully builds tension, it occasionally feels too much like a standard morality tale without diving deeply enough into the psychological complexities of its characters.

Overall, *Fabulous Lives of the Rich & Brilliant Minds* offers an insightful and engaging commentary on class, morality, and ambition. Alizeh Agnihotri’s confident debut and the film's compelling premise make it worth watching, though the story could have benefited from a deeper exploration of its characters' emotional arcs.