In “Bloody Daddy,” director Zafar creates a frenzied mashup of a big fat wedding and gangster gore, resulting in a film that feels like it was made simply because a star was available and a decent budget could be mustered. Despite its flaws, the movie manages to entertain with its humorous moments and fast-paced action sequences.
The story unfolds in the aftermath of a pandemic, where Delhi streets are conveniently deserted for a high-stakes car chase and a cocaine heist. Sumair (Shahid Kapoor), a narcotics cop, and his partner Jaggi (Zeishan Quadri) inadvertently find themselves entangled in the chaos when they steal a bag containing Rs 50 crore worth of cocaine. As Sumair grapples with the situation, he is faced with personal challenges, including his sulky son Atharv (Sartaaj Kakkar) and his ex-wife’s criticism of his parenting.
However, matters take a turn for the worse when Atharv is kidnapped by Sikander (Ronit Roy), the furious owner of the stolen bag and a lavish hotel in Gurugram. Sumair must retrieve the bag and rescue his son, leading to a high-stakes showdown in the garishly opulent hotel during a bustling wedding ceremony. Amidst the chaos, two other cops, Sameer (Rajeev Khandewal) and Aditi (Diana Penty), join the pursuit, creating a web of deception, murder, and thrilling chases throughout the hotel’s corridors and kitchens.
What saves “Bloody Daddy” from becoming a dreary affair is Sumair’s street-smart resourcefulness and humor, evident in his interactions with two Nepali cooks and an eager newbie bartender. The film’s depiction of the Delhi nouveau riche and their extravagant, post-pandemic celebratory attitudes is captured with a touch of satire. However, it is puzzling how a seven-star hotel lacks adequate security and fails to cater to basic demands such as lactose-free milk.
While the film manages to maintain tension and suspense through Shahid Kapoor’s performance as Sumair, the character itself lacks likability and sympathy. Sumair’s impulsive and irrational actions, such as kicking over a banquet for no apparent reason, evoke shades of Kabir Singh-like petulance. Moreover, Sikander and his henchmen fail to exude a menacing presence, undermining the sense of genuine danger faced by Atharv.
Despite its shortcomings, “Bloody Daddy” benefits from slick cinematography by Marcin Laskawiec and a breathless pace that keeps viewers engaged. The performances are serviceable, with Shahid Kapoor effectively conveying Sumair’s desperation and Rohit Roy capturing the essence of a jumped-up thug struggling to maintain control amidst opulence and adversaries.
“Bloody Daddy” is a film that thrives on its blend of over-the-top moments, dark humour, and adrenaline-pumping action. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, its frenetic energy and occasional wit make it an entertaining watch, particularly for those seeking a dose of chaotic escapism. Although originally intended for the big screen, the film finds its home on OTT platforms, where viewers can immerse themselves in its audacious blend of a big fat wedding and gangster gore.
