Director: Kalees. 

Cast: Varun Dhawan, Wamiqa Gabbi, Keerthy Suresh, Jackie Shroff, and Rajpal Yadav. Genre: action thriller.

 Runtime: 2 hours 41 minutes. 

Release Date: December 25, 2024.

 Synopsis: ‘Baby John’ depicts John D’Silva (Varun Dhawan), a former Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) who takes on a new identity as a bakery entrepreneur to safeguard his daughter, Khushi (Zara Zyanna), from old rivals. When Khushi’s teacher, Tara (Wamiqa Gabbi), accidentally reveals his true identity, John is forced to confront his old foe, Nana (Jackie Shroff), in order to protect his daughter.

Review: “Baby John” attempts to blend high-octane action with emotional storytelling but delivers a mixed experience. Varun Dhawan’s portrayal of a doting father and a fearless cop showcases his versatility and dedication, bringing depth to an otherwise conventional narrative. Wamiqa Gabbi, as Tara, adds charm, though her character’s potential remains underexplored. Keerthy Suresh, in a limited role as Meera, contributes to the emotional quotient, while Jackie Shroff’s portrayal of the antagonist, Nana, exudes menace, albeit within a stereotypical framework.

The film’s action sequences are a highlight, with well-executed stunts and dynamic cinematography by Kiran Koushik. However, the screenplay leans heavily on familiar tropes, offering little innovation. The narrative’s predictability and reliance on clichés diminish its impact, making the 161-minute runtime feel stretched.

Conclusion: “Baby John” offers a platform for Varun Dhawan to display his action prowess and emotional range. However, the film’s adherence to formulaic storytelling and lack of originality hinder its potential. While it may appeal to fans of the action genre and the lead actor, those seeking a fresh cinematic experience might find it lacking.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)