Film: Bade Miyan Chote Miyan

Cast: Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, Prithviraj, Sonakshi Sinha, Manushi Chhillar, Alaya F, Ronit Roy

Director: Ali Abbas Zafar

Rating: 4 Moons

In the late '90s, Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda set the parameters for comedy films high with their blockbuster, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. Tickling the audience's funny bone, the film became a cult classic. After rib-tickling humour, it's time for some bone-breaking action. The new-age Bade Miyan Chote Miyan are Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff. Ali Abbas Zafar adds his signature touch to the story with loads of action, humour and thrills. 

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan revolves around soldiers named Freddy (Akshay Kumar) and Rocky (Tiger Shroff). They make for a deadly combination for the country's enemies. An incident forces them to part ways. As destined, Freddy and Rocky are reunited for a dangerous mission against a masked antagonist. Bade Miyan and Chote Miyan get tangled in the web of technology and science in the mission to identify the enemy. Misha (Manushi Chhillar) and Pam (Alaya F) join the mission with Freddy and Rocky.

High-concept action thrillers are Ali Abbas Zafar's forte. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is a worthy addition to his filmography. He doesn't hold himself back from showing the most unimaginable action sequences. Using war weapons and hand-to-hand combat in unique ways, the director serves thrills and edge-of-the-seat moments from the first frame. The fight portions are elaborate, stylish and brilliantly choreographed. None of the styles have been repeated throughout Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. 

Ali refrains from letting any unnecessary love angles hamper the pace. It's through-and-through action. Dance numbers like Mast Malang and the Bade Miyan Chote Miyan title track don't throw you out of the narrative but hold your attention. Adding a touch of humour and playfulness, Ali has crafted his characters Rocky and Pam innocently so much so that when they sound silly, they don't annoy. 

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan rides only on action. The heroic moments are there for the audience to celebrate. Every backflip, fall, flight in the air, flips and punches land brilliantly and look stunning. The cinematography elevates the fast-paced dramatic portions. The thriller lacks emotional depth. Kabir's (Prithviraj) vengeance and the purpose behind it should have been given more flavour but it seems rushed and unconvincing. While the actor has done a brilliant job, the director appears to be in a hurry to proceed to the main 'war' part. The futuristic twist added is amusing and believable as it is the era of science and technology. Barring the action, the film has little to offer. If you're an action-thriller fan, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is the right pick.

Akshay Kumar leads like a true hero. Ageing like fine wine, the superstar doesn't shy away from flaunting his real age and salt-n-pepper moustache. Being the 'Bade Miyan', he brings his A-game through what he does best - action. One can experience comfort watching Akshay perform high-octane stunts effortlessly. Not to forget, he cracks the most amazing punchlines without seeming rehearsed.

Tiger Shroff's dedication and hard work can be seen. There's no doubt about his action skills but this time, he gets to play a more flamboyant and colourful character. Rocky represents youth. He's a perfect blend of talent and innocence. Tiger adds comic relief to the film when needed. The camaraderie between Tiger and Akshay is entertaining and flawless. However, Bade Miyan overshadows Chote Miyan.

Manushi Chhillar has a lot more to offer than in her previous releases. She does well. Alaya F is adorable as Pam and brings her best in terms of humour and cuteness. The bubbliness is lovable. Sonakshi Sinha might have a 'special appearance' but she's the beating heart of the film. Prithviraj excels as Kabir. He's scary and menacing. Going from charming to diabolic, his journey in Bade Miyan Chote Miyan shall be remembered for years. Prithviraj adds extra weight to the film and his contribution is special. 

If action and big-scale entertainers appeal to you, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is the perfect pick. Full-throttle action and stylised choreography make it unique and entertaining. The bromance between Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff shouldn't be missed!