Critics Review

2.50

Varun Dhawan impresses as an action hero in a familiar

Varun Dhawan impresses, balancing a dual role as a caring father and a fearless cop. His performance adds depth and conviction to the otherwise predictable narrative. Wamiqa Gabbi impresses with her screen presence, though her character�s background as an undercover cop remains unexplored. Rajpal Yadav as constable Sevakram and Jacky, John�s trusted aide, is a delightful surprise, offering more than just comic relief. Jackie Shroff�s menacing Nana leaves a lasting impression, making the most of his screen time. The movie has its moments as an actioner, but in terms of content and narrative, it could have been more impactful.(more)

Source: Dhaval Roy, Times Of India

2.00

Rehash of Theri, No Mass Appeal

A Bollywood A-lister makes an appearance in the final sequence of the film and joins Baby John aka Satya Varma in wishing the audience Merry Christmas and for all the other festivals that Indians celebrate. Trouble is that Baby John falls way, way short of working action movie fans up into a celebratory frenzy. (more)

Source: Saibal Chatterjee, NDTV Movies

2.75

Remake that struggles to match the original

Baby John is an action-packed emotional drama that has its moments. Varun Dhawan does a solid job balancing both sides of his character, and Keerthy Suresh is charming in her small role. Wamiqa Gabbi does well, but Jackie Shroff doesn�t meet expectations. While Thaman and Kalees do their part, the film, being a carbon copy of Vijay�s Theri, doesn�t quite match the original, even with a bigger budget. If you�re in the mood for a formulaic story with mass action and some emotional moments, Baby John might work for you. Otherwise, you can explore other options.(more)

Source: 123 Telugu, 123telugu.com

2.00

Not Even Varun Dhawan's Honest Effort And Salman Bhai's Swag Worthy Cameo Can Save The Shoddy Execution & Lack Of Connect

Keerthy Suresh and Wamiqa Gabbi do full justice to their characters, but there would�ve been a better scope for their performances with better etched-out writing. Somehow, Keerthy and Varun Dhawan�s chemistry doesn�t strike a chord with you, both in the courtship and the emotional scenes. Jackie Shroff is menacing regarding the physicalities, but his performance comes across as very caricaturish. Sheeba Chadha is endearing to behold. Rajpal Yadav is a treat to watch as he, for the first time, tries his hand at some action. Watch out for the actor giving out one of the best dialogues in the film, hands down when one of the baddies writes him off as a �comedy.� A massive shoutout to Zara Zyanna for her adorable performance as Varun Dhawan�s onscreen daughter, Khushi.(more)

Source: Shreshtha Chaudhury, Koimoi