Baby John Movie Fails to Deliver on High Expectations – Here’s Why

Bollywood has long been synonymous with high-energy masala films, combining over-the-top action, melodrama, and larger-than-life characters. These elements, when executed well, can create box-office magic. 

However, Baby John, the latest Varun Dhawan starrer and a Hindi remake of the Tamil blockbuster Theri (2016), struggles to replicate the magic of its predecessor. Despite its star power and ambitious scope, the film falters in its execution, leaving audiences underwhelmed.

The Premise

Baby John follows Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Satya Verma, a celebrated crime-buster in Mumbai who goes incognito to protect his young daughter from vengeful adversaries. The narrative oscillates between the past and present, showcasing Satya’s heroic feats and his struggle to maintain a low profile while raising his daughter.

While the premise is reminiscent of numerous good-versus-evil tales, the execution feels dated. The film tries to blend action, emotional drama, and romance but ends up delivering a disjointed experience.

Key Highlights

• Cinematography: The film benefits from striking visuals, particularly during action sequences. The use of slow-motion and stylized lighting adds a cinematic flair to otherwise predictable moments.
• Supporting Cast: Rajpal Yadav, playing a serious role for a change, brings a touch of gravitas to the narrative. His moments, though limited, offer respite from the chaotic pacing.
• Music and Background Score: Although not groundbreaking, the music complements the film’s tone, with a couple of tracks standing out for their emotional resonance.

The Pitfalls

1. Lack of Originality

The primary criticism of Baby John is its over-reliance on Theri. While remakes often draw inspiration from their originals, this film fails to bring anything new to the table. Key plot points, dialogues, and character arcs are recycled with minimal tweaks, resulting in a predictable storyline.

2. Varun Dhawan’s Misfit Performance

Known for his comedic timing and boy-next-door charm, Varun Dhawan struggles to embody the stoic, action-oriented DCP Satya Verma. His attempt to adopt a gritty persona feels forced, making it difficult for the audience to connect with his character.

3. Weak Writing

The screenplay lacks coherence, with scenes often feeling like standalone moments rather than part of a cohesive narrative. Emotional beats fail to land due to inconsistent pacing, while dialogue oscillates between melodramatic and bland.

4. Underwhelming Villainy

Jackie Shroff’s portrayal of the antagonist Nanaji is one-dimensional, reducing a potentially formidable character into a caricature. The lack of a compelling villain weakens the stakes, making the protagonist’s journey less impactful.

Data-Driven Insights: Comparing Theri and Baby John

Missed Opportunities

• Fleshing Out Characters: Female characters in Baby John are reduced to stereotypical roles, which limits their impact on the narrative. Keerthy Suresh’s debut in Hindi cinema deserved better than a sidelined role.
• Leveraging Atlee’s Vision: As the producer of the film, Atlee could have used his expertise to inject freshness into the remake. Instead, the film suffers from a lack of creative risks.

Audience Response 

While Indian audiences are increasingly demanding nuanced storytelling, Baby John caters to outdated tropes. The film’s reliance on melodrama and over-the-top action alienates younger viewers who seek relatability and innovation.

Lessons for Bollywood

Baby John serves as a reminder that remakes need to evolve with changing audience expectations. While star power can drive initial footfall, a lack of originality and weak storytelling can severely limit a film’s impact.

For Bollywood to thrive in the masala genre, filmmakers must strike a balance between homage and innovation, ensuring that stories resonate with contemporary audiences while retaining their cinematic appeal.