Watch Action Hero Biju

Action Hero Biju is a 2016 Indian Malayalam-language film directed by Abrid Shine, co-written by Shine and Muhammad Shafeeq, and starring Nivin Pauly in the lead role. This film marked a significant departure from the typical portrayals of police officers in Indian cinema, particularly within the Malayalam film industry. Unlike the conventional 'larger than life' cops frequently depicted in mass entertainers, Action Hero Biju provides a more realistic and grounded representation of a police officer's life and duties.

The movie introduces us to Biju Paulose, portrayed by Nivin Pauly, a Sub-Inspector recently assigned to the Janamaithri Police Station. Nivin Pauly, known for his boy-next-door image in romantic dramas such as "Premam," takes on a role that requires a nuanced performance as a law enforcement officer. Anu Emmanuel, Devi Ajith, and a robust supporting cast consisting of many newcomers and established actors contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of characters that anchor the movie's narrative.

Action Hero Biju is structured episodically, almost like a collection of vignettes strung together to give us a snapshot of the everyday life of a police officer. It abandons the standard storyline arc of one primary crime and investigation and instead uses multiple minor incidents to paint a broader picture of police work. Each case Biju encounters is like a short story within the larger narrative - from trivial disputes to more severe crimes, dealing with them showcases not just the heroics but also the banal and bureaucratic aspects of police life.

Importantly, the movie doesn't shy away from the less glamorous side of a police officer's job. It delves into the intricacies of case filings, the negotiation of peaceful resolutions, and the personal interactions with the public that demand a delicate balance of empathy and authority. It's a job where the mundane and the dangerous often intertwine, where the stakes can escalate quickly, and Biju navigates these with a sense of responsibility and humanity.

Action Hero Biju is also a character study. Biju Paulose is no infallible hero; rather, he's a well-intentioned but flawed individual with his own set of challenges. He faces the same daily grind as any other working professional, with the added pressure of maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of his community. His relationship with his girlfriend, Benitta Dominic, played by Anu Emmanuel, adds a personal dimension to the story, allowing the audience to see Biju not just as a cop but as a regular person with a life outside the uniform.

The film spotlights the variety of cases that a police station in Kerala has to handle, ranging from petty thefts to family disputes to cybercrimes. Each case is a new chapter in Biju's journey as a police officer, and Nivin Pauly masterfully portrays the wide range of emotions and complexities that these cases elicit. Rather than focusing on one significant event, Action Hero Biju thrives on the cumulative impact of its many narrative threads, drawing the viewer into the world of local law enforcement.

Director Abrid Shine uses a naturalistic style of filmmaking to immerse the audience in the realism of a police officer's daily routine. The film's production design, the cinematography, and the spot-on casting all serve to enhance the authenticity of the world he brings to life on screen. There's an organic feel to the interactions, a testament to both the script and the performances that make the characters feel relatable and realistic.

Moreover, Action Hero Biju avoids the trappings of a musical extravaganza that is common in Indian films. Instead, it opts for a more understated score that serves to accentuate the emotion and tension of the narrative without overwhelming it. The background score and occasional songs complement the scenes without detracting from the film's overall verisimilitude.

In terms of performance, Nivin Pauly stands out with a portrayal that cements his versatility as an actor. His Biju is principled without being preachy, powerful without being oppressive, and vulnerable without being weak. The supporting cast, many of whom are playing characters inspired by real-life individuals, add depth and realism to the movie, giving audiences a glimpse into the diversity of experiences and personalities that make up the police force.

While Action Hero Biju offers a more slice-of-life perspective on police work that differs from the mainstream 'cop dramas,' it still manages to contain moments of tension and action. These scenes are handled with a level of realism and intensity that keeps them engaging without succumbing to unnecessary drama or over-the-top heroics.

Overall, Action Hero Biju is a tribute to the everyday heroes in the police force who navigate the complexities of their job with dedication and resolve. It provides a fresh perspective on policing by showing a human side of law enforcement away from cinematic exaggerations. The movie has a sense of purpose that resonates, aiming to not only entertain but also inform and possibly inspire respect for the quiet bravery that underpins the work of police officers like Biju Paulose.