An Action Hero

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Anirudh Iyer's directorial debut, *An Action Hero* (2022), is an entertaining roller-coaster that blends satire, action, and comedy with clever writing and sharp dialogue. The film stars Ayushmann Khurrana as Maanav, a pompous superstar with an ego as large as his bank account. Maanav is so accustomed to being catered to by everyone around him that he believes he can buy his way out of any situation—until he accidentally kills the younger brother of a ruthless gangster-turned-politician, Bhoora Solanki (Jaideep Ahlawat).

Maanav’s world collapses when Bhoora starts a deadly pursuit after him, leading Maanav to flee to London in hopes of escaping the gangster’s wrath. However, Bhoora follows, and Maanav must transform into a real-life action hero to survive. The film cleverly parodies the world of superstardom, offering insider jokes and satirical takes on media sensationalism and the film industry’s murky ties to the underworld.

The central conflict is built around the toxic masculinity of both Maanav and Bhoora. Maanav is an actor who sees himself as a larger-than-life figure but is humbled by real danger. In contrast, Bhoora’s obsession with revenge stems from a deep-seated belief in his own invincibility. The two characters, despite their differences, are forced to collaborate at times, creating hilarious and unexpected situations. Their physical and ego-driven rivalry provides both tension and comedy, making for a gripping watch.

The film’s stylistic direction by Kaushal Shah and fast-paced editing by Nirad Khanolkar keep the momentum high, while the action sequences are inventive and well-choreographed. The witty screenplay introduces a series of colorful characters that enrich the plot, ensuring there's always something new to keep the audience entertained.

Ayushmann Khurrana and Jaideep Ahlawat deliver strong performances as their respective characters. Khurrana convincingly transforms from a self-absorbed superstar to a vulnerable man in danger, showcasing his versatility in a role quite different from his previous ones. Ahlawat, though familiar in the role of a ruthless antagonist, brings a fresh intensity to the film, making Bhoora a compelling and menacing figure.

Ultimately, *An Action Hero* is a fun, high-energy film with a mix of humor, action, and social commentary. It takes cinematic liberties but manages to keep its audience entertained with its fast-paced narrative and entertaining performances. Kudos to Anirudh Iyer for delivering a stylish, witty, and engaging film that keeps viewers smiling throughout.