Director Ali Abbas Zafar's latest offering, "Bloody Daddy," is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that leaves the audience torn between admiration and frustration. With a talented cast led by Shahid Kapoor and a premise filled with potential, the film attempts to captivate audiences with its slickness and narrative flair. However, it falls just short of being a truly satisfying cinematic experience.
The story revolves around Sumair (Shahid Kapoor), an irate NCB officer who finds himself in a race against time to rescue his kidnapped son. As Sumair navigates a 7-star hotel owned by the kingpin behind the abduction, tensions rise, and chaos ensues. What sets "Bloody Daddy" apart is its clever adaptation, incorporating the pandemic into its universe and weaving it into the backdrop of the story. The post-second wave setting adds depth to the narrative, exploring the desperation of characters trying to recover their losses in a world reshaped by the crisis.
One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to infuse humor into the high-stakes action. The character of Sumair's son, Atharv, serves as a Gen-Z punchline, offering comic relief amidst the violence and tension. The witty dialogue and comedic moments help to defuse the intensity, creating a balance that keeps the audience engaged. Shahid Kapoor's portrayal of Sumair is another highlight, as he channels his distinct Hindi film machismo while injecting a performative cockiness into the character. Sumair's moral ambiguity adds intrigue, leaving viewers questioning his true nature throughout the film.
Ali Abbas Zafar's direction shines brightest during the film's early stages. The narrative sparkles with wit and narrative flair, and the adaptation of the French-language action thriller Sleepless Night showcases Zafar's talent for storytelling. The film effortlessly incorporates the aesthetics of a crime noir with an eccentric twist, reminiscent of Guy Ritchie's style. The well-choreographed action sequences and the tension-building interactions between characters further enhance the film's appeal.
However, "Bloody Daddy" falters in maintaining its initial momentum. As the story progresses, the film shifts gears, taking itself too seriously and losing the elements that made it stand out. The showy action, increased bloodshed, and conventional portrayal of the antagonist, Sikandar (Ronit Bose Roy), detract from the film's unique charm. The plot becomes predictable, and the stakes lose their impact, leaving the audience longing for the earlier moments of snappiness and self-awareness.
The film's downfall is particularly disheartening because it had the potential to be exhilarating. With its clever premise and engaging performances, "Bloody Daddy" teeters on the brink of brilliance but ultimately falls short. Ali Abbas Zafar's ability to exceed expectations and yet disappoint simultaneously is evident in this film as well.
In conclusion, "Bloody Daddy" is a mixed bag. It showcases Ali Abbas Zafar's talent for storytelling and his knack for infusing humor into intense narratives. Shahid Kapoor delivers a noteworthy performance, and the film's adaptation and incorporation of the pandemic setting are commendable. However, the film loses its way in the latter half, succumbing to conventional tropes and losing the unique charm that made it promising. While it may leave some viewers feeling pleasantly surprised, others may find themselves disappointed by the missed opportunities. "Bloody Daddy" is a testament to the complexities of our viewing experiences, where biases and expectations shape our subjective interpretations of art.
Kumaon Jagran Rating: ★★★☆☆
Director: Ali Abbas Zafar Writers: Ali Abbas Zafar, Aditya Basu, Siddharth-Garima Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Ronit Bose Roy, Rajeev Khandelwal, Diana Penty, Sartaaj Kakkar, Sanjay Kapoor, Vivaan Bhathena, Zeishan Quadri, Mukesh Bhatt