The Baaghi 4 trailer has been released, and although there's excitement about the continuation of the series, the plot reminds one strangely of a different movie, Paanch Ka Punch or originally titled Ainthu Ainthu Ainthu. This is not necessarily a negative, but it's difficult not to be disappointed when the Baaghi franchise, once known for over-the-top action and original plot twists, now appears to be resorting to a retreaded storyline.
The plot, involving Tiger Shroff's Ronny losing his mind following his girlfriend's potential vanishing, takes a cue from the previous psychological struggle undertaken in Paanch Ka Punch. But here's the twist—it's not even done to the same level.
Ronny's inner conflict in Baaghi 4 appears to revolve around whether his girlfriend really existed or if he's just imagining her existence. This concept is one that is known and uncomfortably similar to the storyline of Paanch Ka Punch, where the main character is certain that he still coexists with the ghost of his late girlfriend. Whereas Paanch Ka Punch approached the psychological complexity in a more thoughtful and introspective manner, Baaghi 4 seems to skate past the mental complexity in favor of action and melodrama.
The most disturbing aspect, however, is that Baaghi 4 does not bring anything innovative to the table. The character of Ronny—much like its predecessors—is a paper-thin action hero. His alleged emotional crisis becomes an afterthought to his fight choreography. The plot attempts to introduce an existential crisis but doesn’t quite build on it, leaving us with a generic storyline that feels more like a plot device than a compelling narrative. Instead of offering fresh character development or deeper emotional stakes, we’re left with the same old formula.
The unoriginality of the plot isn't only infuriating—it's also disappointing when it comes to the way Baaghi 4 handles serious issues like bereavement and mental illness. The idea of a character struggling with the trauma of losing someone close to them could have been a great narrative, but the movie appears happy to use it as a background for fight scenes, running down the seriousness of the issue in the process. Whereas Paanch Ka Punch handled sorrow with the gravity that it warranted, Baaghi 4 has the risk of reducing mental health into a plot device within a greater spectacle.
This focus change is symptomatic of the franchise's general downfall. What was once an action series with a mission now comes across as a desperate try at keeping the Baaghi brand alive. Instead of developing or breaking new ground, Baaghi 4 milks a formula that succeeded in previous movies but without the urgency and depth that made the original narratives so compelling. The franchise appears satisfied with serving up more of the same—action-packed scenes with minimal emotional or narrative investment.
Baaghi 4 seems like another film that follows the same path, relying on its action pieces and superficial melodrama to drive the narrative. Although it's difficult to refute the charm of Tiger Shroff's action performance in the film, the predictable nature of the plot and the shallowness of the melodrama are not the best. If you’re looking for a fresh take or a story that challenges your thoughts, Baaghi 4 doesn’t seem like the film to provide that. It feels more like a rehash than a progression.