In the world of Bollywood, certain films are bound to spark interest, and “Badass Ravi Kumar” is one such film that has generated buzz, primarily due to its lead actor Himesh Reshammiya. With 60% booking on BookMyShow and anticipation building among fans, one can’t help but wonder if this movie lives up to the hype. This review explores the film’s storyline, performances, and overall impact, making it an essential read for anyone contemplating whether to watch this production.
Plot Overview
The film is set against the backdrop of the 1980s and begins in Muscat, Oman, where a notorious don named Carlos, played by Prabhu Deva, is embroiled in a treacherous deal involving Pakistan. He aims to exchange a list of Indian secret agents for a hefty sum, a list that is in the possession of actress Kirti Kulhari’s character. As the Indian government catches wind of this deal, they enlist the titular character, Badass Ravi Kumar, on a mission to retrieve this crucial information. What unfolds is a tale filled with suspense and drama that only theater-goers can fully appreciate.
The Film’s Quality
Before diving into a critique, let’s discuss a notable scene. Throughout the film, Himesh Reshammiya’s character is often seen with a cigarette, claiming he does not smoke but carries it in memory of his brother. This motif proves to be more than just a narrative choice—it becomes a repeated distraction. While the first half of the film presents subpar dialogues and acting, the second half escalates into a dizzying array of poor dialogues, lackluster songs, and unimpressive fight sequences. The overall experience is so cringeworthy that it could redefine what one considers a “bad movie.” Even cringeworthy films often hold more entertainment value than this outing.
The 1980s were wonderfully rich in cinematic gems like “Shahenshah,” “Tezaab,” “Parinda,” and “Karma,” which showcased engaging plots and talented actors. In comparison, “Badass Ravi Kumar” is a puzzling addition to this cinematic legacy, particularly due to the absurdity of a character like Prabhu Deva engaging in dance-fighting sequences, which completely disregards logic. This leaves viewers questioning not just the film but the creative decisions behind it.
Acting Performance
While Himesh Reshammiya has made a name for himself as a singer and songwriter, his acting chops leave much to be desired. The amalgamation of fitness, styling, and glam in cinema cannot substitute for genuine acting talent. Unfortunately, throughout the film, Himesh showcases only two distinct expressions: a grin and a blank stare. Notable actors such as Saurabh Sachdeva, Sanjay Mishra, Prashant Narayanan, and Johnny Lever tragically seem wasted in this production, leaving audiences to ponder what compelled them to be part of such a project.
Should You Watch It?
In summary, “Badass Ravi Kumar” is easily skippable for anyone seeking quality entertainment. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, consider watching “Lavaiyaapa,” which guarantees a more engaging experience. The film features a line that resonates with the core of its issues: “Those living in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” Perhaps this is a lesson Himesh Reshammiya should learn, keeping a safe distance from the acting world. In colloquial terms, as they say in Gujarati, “Jenu kaam tenu thaay bijo kare so gota khay” – understanding one’s capabilities is paramount.