Storyline
Former cop John D’Silva (Varun Dhawan), now a bakery owner and single father, leads a quiet life with his daughter Khushi (Zara Zyanna). But his past as DCP Satya Verma comes to light when teacher Tara (Wamiqa Gabbi) unknowingly exposes his identity while thwarting a human trafficking attempt. Forced to confront Nana (Jackie Shroff), a vengeful criminal seeking retribution for his son’s death, John must protect his daughter while facing his darkest enemies.
Review
Strengths:
The bond between John and Khushi forms the emotional core of the film, with heartfelt moments that add charm. Varun Dhawan excels in his dual role, seamlessly shifting between a doting father and a no-nonsense action hero. His performance is complemented by Jackie Shroff’s intimidating portrayal of Nana, whose menacing screen presence adds gravitas to the antagonist.
Wamiqa Gabbi holds her own with a strong screen presence, though her character’s potential as an undercover cop remains underdeveloped. Rajpal Yadav’s comic timing and Jackie, John’s loyal aide, bring a refreshing layer of humor to the narrative.
The action sequences, choreographed with flair, are visually engaging, supported by Kiran Koushik’s sleek cinematography. Playful nods, such as a reference to Varun’s Bhediya, offer moments of levity.
Weaknesses:
The film falters in its uneven pacing, with disjointed transitions between John’s past as a fearless cop and his present struggles. The flashback sequences, including Satya’s romance with Dr. Meera (Keerthy Suresh), rely on formulaic tropes, offering little innovation.
The story, while entertaining in parts, lacks depth and cohesion, leaning heavily on familiar action-drama clichés like child kidnappings and heroic justice. At a runtime of nearly three hours, the film overstays its welcome, with some sequences feeling redundant.
Verdict
Baby John has its moments, particularly in its action choreography and performances by Varun Dhawan and Jackie Shroff. However, its predictable storyline and lack of narrative cohesion prevent it from leaving a lasting impression. While it entertains as a typical action drama, the film misses the opportunity to stand out in a crowded genre.