Bhaiyya Ji

Story: A former criminal sets out to avenge his younger brother’s murder over a petty argument. As he takes on the powerful mafioso responsible, his loyal followers join him in his fight.

Review: Manoj Bajpayee plays the titular role of a former criminal and 'Robin Hood ka baap' in this crime drama directed by Apoorv Singh Karki. The film has a promising opening, with a heart-wrenching scene as Bhaiyyaji witnesses his brother incinerated at a police station and discovers he was brutally murdered.

However, the initial promise of an intricate plot unraveling the truth behind the murder fades as the narrative progresses. The movie settles into a familiar Bollywood formula of the 90s, complete with dramatic action sequences and dialogues. Potboilers delivering action-packed entertainment are perfect for a guilty pleasure, but the over-the-top heroics and implausible scenarios here have all been seen too many times. The entertainment wears off soon, and one yearns for a more nuanced exploration of themes like vengeance and redemption.

Despite the formulaic elements, the action sequences are well-choreographed and visually appealing. The use of macro shots and slow motion adds a layer of intensity to the fight scenes. Apoorv Singh Karki’s direction is passable but a more focused narrative and a tighter screenplay could have made the movie captivating. The movie also gets repetitive in the second half, with flashbacks of the younger brother’s memories and their mother reminding Bhaiyyaji of his promise to avenge his death.

Manoj Bajpayee shines throughout the film, effortlessly transitioning between intense emotional moments and action-packed sequences. He even brings a touch of humour to some scenes, showcasing his acting versatility. Zoya Hussain provides ample support as Bhaiyyaji's fiance and a national-level shooting champion who utilises her skills when needed. The performances of the antagonists, Suvinder Vicky and Jatin Goswami, are appropriately menacing, while Vipin Sharma is convincing as the corrupt cop.

While 'Bhaiyya Ji' boasts strong performances and engaging action sequences, the predictable storyline and overreliance on formulaic tropes leave viewers wanting more.