Fast-moving action drama packs plenty of punch
Starring: Ayushmann Khurrana and Jaideep Ahlawa Director: Anirudh Iyer
ACTOR Ayushmann Khurrana has made a name for himself in recent years with subjects that are far removed from ones usually attempted in conventional Bollywood films.
With this film, he ventures into a more commercial action space and puts an interesting spin on the genre.
He portrays a popular movie star named Maanav, who has made a name for himself as a successful action hero. A local politician wants to meet him, but it doesn’t happen and through a series of events, a deadly accident happens. Maanav quickly escapes to London, without realising that someone dangerous seething with rage is in pursuit of him. What follows is a duel between two decidedly different individuals. The surprisingly good film packs in plenty of entertainment and energy. The stripped-down story removes most of the unnecessary baggage that normally accompanies a commercial Hindi entertainer, and what remains is a relatively fast-moving film filled with plenty of punch.
Although there are interesting set pieces, sharp camerawork, and some eye-catching stunts, the heartbeats of An Action Hero are the central protagonists played well by two good actors. Khurrana ventures into new territory with a role that is played with perfect conviction. Meanwhile, Jaideep Ahlawat is outstanding and delivers one of this year’s best Bollywood performances with his incendiary role.
On the downside, the film does lose its early momentum and kind of becomes a little repetitive in the latter half. It also deserved much better music. That doesn’t stop this from being one of the best Bollywood films that has been released this year and it has plenty of entertainment value.