Varun Dhawan shines in Baby John, a high-octane adaptation of Theri, blending massy action with emotional depth. A perfect festive treat for audiences!
A Theri-fic Adaptation:
Director Kalees delivers a faithful yet larger-than-life adaptation of Atlee’s Tamil hit Theri with Baby John. The film leans into a traditional masala template but manages to elevate its narrative with impactful emotional beats and exhilarating action sequences.
Varun Dhawan’s Stellar Show:
Varun Dhawan’s dual portrayal of a loving father and a fearless cop is a career highlight. He seamlessly balances the intensity of a mass hero with moments of restraint, ensuring a connect with both mass and family audiences. Jackie Shroff, as the menacing antagonist, steals the spotlight with his compelling screen presence, while Salman Khan’s cameo injects energy that is sure to bring whistles and cheers.
Supporting Cast and Performances:
Keerthy Suresh, though in a limited role, adds her signature charm to the story. Wamiqa Gabbi delivers a decent performance, although her character lacks depth. Rajpal Yadav’s comedic timing and standout moments bring welcome relief, while the film’s ensemble cast supports the narrative effectively.
Strengths and Shortcomings:
Baby John excels in its high-octane action and dramatic moments, amplified by a powerful background score. However, the soundtrack feels underwhelming, and the stretched first half coupled with repetitive writing may test viewers’ patience. Despite these hiccups, the film’s emotional undercurrent and grandiose treatment keep it engaging.
Festive Release Strategy:
Released during the Christmas and New Year season, Baby John targets mass audiences with its larger-than-life appeal. Its timing and festive vibe should ensure packed houses.
Final Verdict:
Baby John is a quintessential masala entertainer that balances action, drama, and emotion, with Varun Dhawan at his best. While not entirely novel, it delivers enough clap-worthy moments to satisfy fans of the genre.
