For his 100th film, something different had to happen for Manoj Bajpayee, and it has. Bhaiyya Ji stands out from his entire filmography, showcasing a completely new side of the actor known for his roles from Bandit Queen to Drohkaal. This time, director Apoorva Singh Karki, a dedicated fan of Bajpayee, has taken on the challenge of fitting him into a new groove, one defined by South Indian cinema’s larger-than-life style.

Apoorva has taken a bold step by placing Bhaiya Ji in a South Indian cinema framework, where actors are celebrated as stars and even the smallest movements create dramatic effects. This style is more about swag than logic, offering a refreshing experience for Bajpayee fans who are used to his sensitive portrayals. Writer Deepak Kingrani and director Apoorva Karki have focused on creating a narrative driven by swagger and dialogues rather than a conventional plot, though the story remains deeply rooted in the cultural context of UP and Bihar, revolving around familiar themes of revenge.

The story begins at a Delhi railway station and follows Ram Charan, aka Bhaiyya Ji, nearing 50, whose life has been marked by rebellion against his father, his Robin Hood-like actions, and his stepmother’s and stepfather’s love. When his stepbrother Vedang is murdered by Abhimanyu, the son of a politician-turned-mafia boss, Bhaiya Ji breaks his vow of non-violence to avenge his brother’s death, igniting a bloody quest for revenge.

Kingrani weaves elements of maternal love, familial dominance, and strong female characters into this revenge tale, portraying a society that bands together in times of trouble. Apoorva Karki brings this story to life with high-voltage dialogues, slow-motion sequences, and South Indian-style action scenes, presenting Manoj Bajpayee in an unprecedented manner.

Manoj Bajpayee excels in this role, bringing realism to the character with his desi swag and fitting perfectly into the action scenes, despite being 55. Zoya Hussain impresses as Bhaiyya Ji’s fiancée, while Surender Vicky and Jatin deliver strong performances as well. Bhaiya Ji serves as a tribute to Bajpayee’s career, asking audiences to relish the action and dialogues rather than focus on the storyline. This masala film earns a solid 3 stars.

Ashwini Kumar

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