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Bad is in the head


In the dynamic landscape of Hindi cinema, where adversarial roles are often earmarked for physically daunting figures, comes a refreshing twist in the guise of suave intellect. The latest motion picture to grace the screens, ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’, showcases renowned Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran in a role that’s far removed from the stereotypical villainous tropes. Instead of sheer brute strength, Sukumaran’s character is that of a stylish and ambitious scientist who harnesses the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to further his plans.

Regularly seen in robust action-packed narratives, leads Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff pivot into battle not against physical prowess, but against the wiles of a cunning mind. Director Ali Abbas Zafar, known for his creative flair, has taken the bold step of painting villainy with intellectual strokes. This unexpected casting sees Sukumaran as Kabir, a clever and ruthless scientist whose battles are of wits rather than fists.

Ali Abbas Zafar, who selected Sukumaran for the role, was keen on an actor whose reputation and acting skills could do justice to the unusual antagonist. The director aimed for a seamless fit to this intricate anti-heroic part, believing that Sukumaran’s persona perfectly encapsulated Kabir’s calculated and refined menace. Upon receiving the script, Sukumaran acknowledged the weight and significance of the role, adding his unique flair to this Eid release’s villainous character — a portrayal kept so secretive that even the film’s teasers withheld a glimpse of his on-screen appearance.

As for Zafar and his business associate Himanshu Mehra, ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ represents their ambitious venture following their involvement in past productions like ‘Jogi’ and ‘Bloody Daddy’. The filmmaker is producing this entertainment alongside veterans Vashu and Jackky Bhagnani. The team brims with optimism, especially about featuring a talent of Sukumaran’s caliber, with Zafar expressing his fortune in collaborating with the south superstar, citing the actor’s brilliance and admitting that their time on set was as much a learning experience as it was a collaborative one.

The re-imagination of villainy in Hindi cinema through ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ breaks the mold, as audiences are introduced to an adversary who is as polished as he is perilous. The character of Kabir exemplifies Zafar’s ambition to redefine the archetypal movie villain into someone who is not only formidable in intellect but also exudes a sense of style and sophistication that contradicts the traditional brawler villain.

This redefinition of the anti-hero comes at a time when Hindi cinema is exploring diverse narratives and characters that challenge the status quo. Sukumaran’s transition from regional cinema to the larger Hindi film landscape is emblematic of the industry’s growing inclusivity and represents a cross-pollination of talents that has the potential to invigorate the storytelling canvas with fresh perspectives.

A blend of tech-savvy innovation and mental acumen defines Sukumaran’s role in ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’, setting it apart from mainstream portrayals of villainy. The film promises to deliver a cerebral confrontation, one where protagonists Kumar and Shroff are pitted against an adversary whose toolkit is laden with logic, strategy, and high-tech trickery.

With its intriguing plot, distinctive character arcs, and the promise of state-of-the-art visual effects, ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ aims to not only entertain but also to make a statement. It challenges and reshapes the conventional outlines of heroism and villainy, all while adhering to the beloved thrills and spills of the action genre.

As the industry and audiences alike eagerly anticipate the release of ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’, the intrigue surrounding the highly guarded look of Sukumaran’s Kabir heightens the suspense. This Eid, viewers will unravel the facade of this stylish anti-hero, as they witness a battle of smarts in a world where brawn has traditionally ruled the roost. It will be a testament to the evolution of the Hindi cinema villain and a showcase for Prithviraj Sukumaran’s versatility as an actor who can convincingly plot his moves on the cerebral chessboard of a high-octane movie.