Baby John (2024) Movie Review
Movie Review: Baby John (2024) – A High-Octane Action Masala with a Mixed Bag of Emotions
Released on December 25, 2024, “Baby John” has been making waves with its action-packed sequences, star-studded performances, and a familiar storyline that leaves the audience with mixed feelings. The film, a Hindi remake of the Tamil blockbuster Theri, directed by Mr. Atlee, brings together an ensemble cast featuring Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, and Jackie Shroff.
Plot Overview:
“Baby John” follows the intense and emotional journey of John, played by Varun Dhawan, a man on a mission to protect his family and his child from the dangerous underworld, while also confronting his past. Much like the Tamil original Theri, the movie blends action, drama, and emotional depth as John’s character grapples with his dual identity: a loving father and a man who’s been pushed into a life of vengeance and violence to protect his loved ones.
Performances:
- Varun Dhawan as John:
Varun Dhawan’s portrayal of John has received widespread praise, with many critics and audience members noting his versatility. Known for his charismatic and youthful persona in commercial cinema, Dhawan brings a surprising depth to his character here. He juggles between his action-packed sequences and emotional scenes with finesse, showing off his range in both high-energy moments and more vulnerable ones. His commitment to the physicality of the role is evident in the intense action scenes, but it’s his ability to convey the internal turmoil and love for his family that resonates the most with viewers. - Keerthy Suresh as Sarah:
Keerthy Suresh, who plays John’s wife Sarah, delivers a heartfelt performance. She’s not just the supportive wife but also a woman who is strong and independent in her own right. Her chemistry with Varun Dhawan is palpable, and she adds a level of warmth to the film that keeps it grounded amidst the chaos. Audiences have lauded her nuanced portrayal, which makes Sarah more than just a typical supporting character. - Jackie Shroff as the Antagonist:
Jackie Shroff steps into a villainous role that adds a distinct gravitas to the film. His portrayal of the antagonist, who has a deep connection to John’s past, is menacing and compelling. Shroff brings his seasoned experience to the table, creating a character who is both ruthless and strategically intelligent. His scenes with Varun Dhawan are some of the film’s most tense, and their face-offs are certainly among the highlights of the film.
Direction & Cinematography:
Under Mr. Atlee’s direction, “Baby John” largely sticks to the formula that worked in Theri, but with a few tweaks to make it more appealing to the Hindi-speaking audience. The film’s pacing is fast, with plenty of action sequences that will keep the adrenaline pumping. However, some viewers have pointed out that the movie loses its charm in the second half, where the focus shifts from intense action to melodrama. Atlee’s signature high-stakes emotional drama is present, but at times, it feels a bit forced and slows down the otherwise gripping narrative.
The action sequences are well-choreographed and provide a solid spectacle, with car chases, hand-to-hand combat, and dramatic confrontations. However, some of the scenes do feel a bit over-the-top and struggle with believability, detracting from the emotional weight of the film.
Music and Background Score:
The music of Baby John plays a significant role in enhancing the mood of the film. The background score is powerful, matching the high-octane nature of the action scenes. The songs, though not particularly memorable, do fit into the narrative well. The music complements the film’s emotional beats and adds to the dramatic build-up during key moments.
Criticism and Mixed Reviews:
While Baby John does deliver on its promise of action and thrills, the film has faced criticism for its predictability, as it closely mirrors Theri. The storyline, though emotionally engaging in parts, doesn’t feel fresh enough to fully captivate audiences. Some viewers felt that the film’s emotional payoff, especially in the climax, didn’t have the same impact as the original Tamil version.
A major point of contention has been the movie’s pacing. While the action-packed sequences are engaging, the film occasionally drags when focusing on family drama. This shift can make the story feel uneven, especially in the latter part of the film. Some critics noted that the film could have benefited from a tighter screenplay that doesn’t lean too heavily on melodrama.
Audience Reception:
Despite these drawbacks, Baby John has managed to strike a chord with audiences who enjoy mass-market, action-driven narratives. The film has been well-received for its engaging performances, particularly from Varun Dhawan, whose fans have expressed admiration for his commitment to the role. Many audience members appreciated the emotional depth that Dhawan brought to the film, especially in the more personal and family-oriented moments.
Keerthy Suresh’s portrayal of Sarah has also garnered a positive response, as her character offers a sense of tenderness amid the chaos. Jackie Shroff’s performance, as the primary antagonist, has been particularly praised for its gravity and intensity, adding a classic touch of menace to the film.
In terms of action and spectacle, Baby John delivers exactly what the audience expects from a high-budget masala movie. The dramatic moments, while sometimes exaggerated, provide the emotional thrust needed to balance out the action sequences.
Conclusion:
Baby John is an entertaining action drama that serves its purpose as a commercial masala film but falls short of being truly memorable. The movie relies heavily on its star cast and high-energy action to keep the audience engaged, but the familiar storyline and predictable emotional arcs hold it back from achieving greatness. Varun Dhawan’s performance is the standout feature of the film, with Jackie Shroff and Keerthy Suresh also delivering solid performances. While the film has its flaws, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a fun, action-packed experience over the Christmas holidays.