Baby John Movie Review | Varun Dhawan’s Bold Leap: From Rejection to Action Star in ‘Baby John’

Summary

Varun Dhawan’s recent film “Baby John” reflects his journey in the competitive film industry, especially after being denied a role in a major action film. With a budget over ₹150 crore and inspired by the Southern film “Theri,” he aims to transform into an action hero. The film features him delivering memorable dialogues and showcasing signature moves, but his off-screen persona may not fully align with his larger-than-life character. The dialogue “Mere jaise bohot aaye honge, but main pehli baar aaya hoon” emphasizes his unique presence in cinema.

Be careful what you wish for. This phrase resonates deeply in the context of Varun Dhawan’s latest venture, “Baby John.” Just two months ago, during the promotional activities for his series debut “Citadel: Honey Bunny,” Varun candidly shared his past experiences with Aditya Chopra, the head of Yash Raj Films (YRF). He recounted a moment when Chopra turned down his request for a role in an action film, stating, “You’re not at that place where I can give you such a big budget.” This encounter highlights the industry’s often harsh realities, where actors must continuously prove their worthiness for big-budget projects.

Varun Dhawan’s Transformation in “Baby John

Fast forward to “Baby John,” which comes with a reported budget exceeding ₹150 crore. The film is an almost scene-for-scene remake of Atlee Kumar’s 2016 film “Theri.” Here, Varun Dhawan is thrust into the spotlight, aiming for a mass makeover that aligns with the larger-than-life characters typical of Southern cinema. The film tries to capture the essence of action-packed blockbusters, but does it succeed in transforming Varun into the action hero he aspires to be?

From the outset, “Baby John” showcases Varun adopting a Southern style, complete with signature Rajinikanth theatrics. He dons shades, flips gum into his mouth with flair, and strikes a pose on the bonnet of a police jeep, showcasing a confident demeanor. These moments are crafted to evoke the kind of cinematic heroism that resonates with audiences. Yet, despite these attempts, Varun’s off-screen persona seems to lack the additional spark needed to elevate this theatrical actioner.

The Competitive Nature of Bollywood

One of the film’s key dialogues, penned by Sumit Arora, is intended to be a memorable catchphrase: “Mere jaise bohot aaye honge, but main pehli baar aaya hoon” (Many would have come before me, but I have come for the first time). This line aims to elicit the same fervent reaction that Shah Rukh Khan’s iconic line from “Jawan” (2023) does: “Bete ko haath lagane se pehle” (Before touching the son). However, Varun’s delivery does not generate the desired impact. Instead of resonating with the audience, it falls flat, feeling forced and lacking the charisma that such lines require to become memorable.

As the film progresses, the overall execution of “Baby John” mirrors this sentiment. The narrative feels disjointed and underwhelming, leaving viewers with a sense of dissatisfaction. The film attempts to blend action, drama, and humor, but the transitions between these elements are often jarring. The pacing struggles to maintain momentum, leading to moments that feel out of sync with the film’s intended tone.

Memorable Dialogues and Signature Moves

Directed by Kalees, “Baby John” showcases a mix of ambition and execution issues. While the film is laden with high production values and flashy sequences, it ultimately struggles to deliver a coherent and engaging story. The reliance on Varun’s star power and the hope that he can carry the film forward is evident, but it becomes clear that simply placing him in a massy role isn’t enough to ensure success.

Varun Dhawan is undoubtedly a talented actor with a diverse portfolio, but “Baby John” seems to challenge his ability to transition into the action hero mold. The film’s reliance on Southern tropes and larger-than-life moments may not resonate with all audiences, especially those who are accustomed to a different style of storytelling. The disconnect between Varun’s off-screen charm and the character he portrays on-screen contributes to the film’s overall unevenness.

Balancing On-Screen and Off-Screen Personas

In conclusion, “Baby John” serves as a cautionary tale in the film industry, reminding us to be careful what we wish for. Varun Dhawan’s desire for a big-budget action film has materialized, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The film’s disjointed narrative, coupled with Varun’s inability to fully embody the larger-than-life hero, results in an experience that feels underwhelming. While the Southern style is strong, it is not enough to mask the film’s shortcomings. Ultimately, “Baby John” stands as a reminder that the road to success in the film industry is often fraught with challenges, and not all wishes lead to the desired outcomes.