Wed Dec 25 12:07:11 UTC 2024: ## Varun Dhawan’s “Baby John” Falls Short Despite Action-Packed Performances

**Mumbai, India** – Varun Dhawan’s latest action thriller, “Baby John,” a remake of the Tamil film “Theri,” has hit theaters to mixed reviews. While Dhawan delivers a compelling performance and the film boasts impressive action sequences, critics point to a weak script as its major downfall.

The film follows John (Dhawan), a seemingly ordinary baker and father living in Kerala with his daughter, who harbors a hidden past as a secret police officer. His peaceful life is shattered when he’s forced to confront his dangerous past and a ruthless villain, Babbar Sher (Jackie Shroff), who is reminiscent of the stereotypical, unkempt villain trope currently popular in cinema. Rajpal Yadav also features in a memorable supporting role.

While the action sequences, particularly those involving Dhawan, are praised for their intensity, the narrative is criticized for its pacing and underdeveloped plot points. The film rushes through key plot elements, failing to adequately explain pivotal character motivations and backstory, leading to a disjointed and often confusing experience. The romantic subplot, while present, lacks depth.

Reviewers highlight the underutilized potential of the supporting cast. Though Jackie Shroff delivers a strong performance as the villain, his character’s motivations remain unexplored, making him a one-dimensional antagonist. Similarly, the role of Vamika Gabbī offers a twist that doesn’t meaningfully contribute to the overall narrative.

Though inspired by “Theri,” “Baby John” fails to capture the essence of the original. Instead of learning from the original’s shortcomings, the remake replicates its weak writing, adding further complications with a subplot concerning a sex trafficking ring. The film’s sound design is also criticized for being overly loud and potentially headache-inducing.

Ultimately, “Baby John” showcases Varun Dhawan’s ability to carry an action film, but its weak script and underdeveloped plot significantly detract from the overall experience. Critics suggest that with a stronger script, Dhawan could successfully establish himself in the mass-hero genre.

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