Run Baby Run

Run Baby Run is a captivating 2012 Indian Malayalam-language action-thriller film featuring iconic stars Mohanlal, Amala Paul, and Biju Menon in major roles. Directed by Joshiy, a renowned filmmaker in the Malayalam cinema, the movie showcases a balanced mixture of suspense, action, and drama ensnared with elements of media politics. This film stands as a testimony to Joshiy's excellence in movie storytelling skills, which leaves audiences clutching their seats from beginning to end.

The film revolves around the life of Venu, portrayed by Mohanlal, who is a high-profile news cameraman working in Reuters. He is an exceptionally skilled professional known for his knack of landing amazing exclusives, much to the delight of the international news agencies he works for, and naturally, becomes the envy for many in his professional realm. He is no less than a celebrity himself. However, beneath his success lie his expressed disillusionment and cynicism towards the same profession he serves so well.

Amala Paul stars as Renuka, an executive editor of a popular news channel named Bharath Vision. She is a perfect blend of beauty and brains who prioritizes her professional ethics above all else. A strong woman who doesn't hesitate to stand against corrupt politicians and social evils through the power of media. Both Venu and Renuka are ex-lovers and shared a passionate relationship at once, but due to some unfortunate events, ended up parting ways on an intensely sour note.

We also meet Rajan Kartha, portrayed by Biju Menon. He is a major part of the news industry, as the star reporter for Bharath Vision. Along with Renuka, Rajan forms an excellent reporter-and-cameraman duo with Venu, and together they create a formidable team.

In the backdrop of this news media scenario, the film opens with an interesting assignment that requires Venu to return to Kerala, his home state. Here, he is introduced to go hand in hand on an assignment with none other than Renuka. With their past awaiting to rerun again, they are forced to deal with their unresolved issues and simmering tension.

The narrative cleverly uses this setup to unveil an intriguing scenario. It brings out the broader theme of media politics, ethics, and the continuous struggle between TRP-driven news content versus reality. The screenplay beautifully uncovers the underbelly of the news channels' rat race, their ways to manipulate news, and their hunger for sensationalism.

Further, other dimensions to the plot introduce the peculiar greed of TV channels to increase their TRPs, which in turn portrays the darker side of media. Viewers also get glimpses of how news is created and presented, often skewed from reality to create sensation and attract viewership.

Throughout the film, the audience enjoys a roller coaster ride of events packed with sharp turns and exciting stints. Mohanlal's magnetic performance as the sassy, yet righteous cameraman Venu is stunning, whereas Amala Paul has given a praiseworthy performance as Renuka, depicting the character's strength and determination brilliantly. The chemistry between Mohanlal and Amala Paul is a delightful watch.

Biju Menon, as Rajan Kartha, also adds significant flavor to the film. His wit and charm make for some entertaining moments in the film. The supporting cast does an excellent job enhancing the tumultuous world of journalism portrayed in the film. The top-notch cinematography by R. D. Rajasekhar, stylish editing by Shyam Sasidharan, with a thrilling music score by Ratheesh Vegha, further lift the film to a higher standard.

'Run Baby Run' stands out as not just a thrilling action movie, but also as a critique of the modern media landscape, tossed up with complicated personal relationships at its heart. It successfully dishes out a blend of mass entertainment and thought-provoking narrative that never fails to engage the audience. It's an adrenaline-pumping visual treat for film enthusiasts who love action-packed dramas and for those interested in getting an inside look into the dynamic and chaotic world of news media.