Plot Overview
Varun Dhawan takes on a dual identity in Baby John, a Bollywood remake of Atlee’s Theri. The film follows John D’Silva, a seemingly ordinary bakery owner and devoted father to Khushi (Zara Zyanna). Their peaceful life is upended when Tara (Wamiqa Gabbi) rescues a young girl from human traffickers and takes her to the police station—unintentionally unearthing John’s past as DCP Satya Varma.
With his cover blown, John must confront Nana (Jackie Shroff), a ruthless criminal out for revenge over his son’s death. As danger looms over his daughter, John is forced to return to his old ways, setting the stage for a high-octane action drama infused with Bollywood-style emotional beats.
Performance & Review
While Baby John packs the standard Bollywood masala—action, drama, and emotional depth—it struggles to bring anything new to the table. The film leans heavily on its source material, Theri, though it attempts to inject a fresh Bollywood touch to differentiate itself.
Varun Dhawan delivers a commendable performance, showcasing a more intense and rugged avatar compared to his usual roles. Jackie Shroff adds weight as the menacing antagonist, while Wamiqa Gabbi gets limited but impactful screen time. The film effectively captures the emotional bond between father and daughter, ensuring some heartwarming moments.
The second half introduces a political angle that briefly elevates the narrative, but the film overall follows a predictable trajectory. Atlee’s influence is evident, even though he isn’t the director, with signature elements of stylized action and heightened drama present throughout. However, for those familiar with the original, Baby John may feel like a rehashed version rather than a fresh take.
Final Verdict
Baby John is an entertaining watch for those who enjoy action-packed Bollywood dramas with emotional depth. However, if you’ve already seen Theri, the film might lack novelty. While Varun Dhawan’s transformation and a few standout moments keep the film engaging, it doesn’t break new ground. A one-time watch for fans of high-energy Bollywood action flicks. Rating: 2.5/5.
