“Call Me Bae” feels like a light, breezy summer read brought to life on screen—frosted with humor, wrapped in luxury, and sprinkled with just enough self-awareness to keep things fun. It’s a riches-to-rags story where Ananya Panday takes the lead as Bae, a high-society girl who loses her wealth and must learn how to survive without her designer labels. It’s a premise that feels familiar but it’s wrapped in the vibrant, social-media-obsessed culture of today.

From the get-go, “Call Me Bae” doesn’t take itself too seriously, and neither should the audience. Ananya Panday brings an almost meta-quality to her role, blurring the line between her public persona and her character’s bubble-gum world of privilege. She plays Bae with a balance of clueless charm and surprising vulnerability, making her more than just a one-note “rich girl.” It’s like watching a transformation from socialite to self-sufficient woman, except it’s not so much about survival as it is about navigating awkward moments and learning to roll her eyes at life’s absurdities.

The show’s comedic energy is amplified by its supporting cast. Vir Das as the newsroom boss Satyajit and Gurfateh Pirzada as Neel, a journalist who becomes Bae’s unlikely ally, keep the show grounded with their performances. Their interactions with Bae offer moments of snappy dialogue and wit that cut through the frothy surface. However, it’s the camaraderie between Bae and her new friends—Saira (Muskkan Jaferi) and Tammarrah (Niharika Dutt)—that truly stands out. They’re more than side characters; they are part of Bae’s growth and lend the series a deeper sense of sisterhood.

That said, “Call Me Bae” doesn’t dig too deep into its characters’ struggles. It flirts with heavier themes like journalistic integrity and social class but doesn’t linger long enough to explore them. The newsroom, where much of the show’s action takes place, feels more like a backdrop for comedic moments rather than a space for a serious commentary on media ethics. This lack of depth isn’t a flaw per se, as the show’s primary goal is entertainment, but it might leave some viewers wanting more substance from the storyline.

Visually, the series sparkles. The high-fashion aesthetic is on full display, with Bae’s wardrobe serving as an extension of her character. Whether she’s strutting in a high-end gown or stumbling in her newfound “broke” phase, the fashion speaks volumes. But as the episodes unfold, there’s a clear evolution not just in Bae’s wardrobe but in her sense of self. The styling choices subtly signal her growing independence and maturity, even if the show’s dialogue doesn’t always spell it out.

At its core, “Call Me Bae” is a coming-of-age story dressed in designer threads. It’s filled with moments that are fun to watch, even when they’re a bit on the nose. For example, the repeated use of social media slang and hashtags can feel overdone at times, but it’s part of the show’s charm. It knows its audience—young, fashion-forward, and Instagram-obsessed—and it plays to that crowd unapologetically.

However, the series isn’t without its hiccups. The pacing feels rushed in parts, especially in its attempt to balance Bae’s journey with the newsroom subplot. It’s almost as if the show is trying to juggle too many bags—much like Bae herself. The shifts can also be a bit jarring; one moment, we’re laughing at an absurd situation, and the next, the show tries to inject a serious message.

Despite these minor missteps, “Call Me Bae” is undeniably enjoyable. It’s a show that knows its place in the OTT world—a frothy escape that doesn’t demand too much from its viewers. Ananya Panday’s performance anchors the series, showing that she’s capable of carrying a role that asks for more than just looking glamorous. The supporting cast, particularly Jaferi and Pirzada, elevate the show, bringing a warmth and sincerity that balances out the more superficial aspects of the plot.

The real strength of “Call Me Bae” lies in its self-awareness. It doesn’t pretend to be groundbreaking television, but it embraces its quirky, campy side with a wink and a smile. The show’s heart is in its ability to poke fun at itself, while still delivering a story of personal growth, wrapped in a glittering package.

So, if you’re in the mood for something light, fun, and a little bit glamorous, “Call Me Bae” is worth a binge. Just don’t expect it to be too deep—sometimes, all you need is a little bit of froth to make the day feel brighter.

Ramisa Anjum is a first-year university student who enjoys movies, series, and all things entertainment.