In the world of Indian cinema, “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, stands out not just for its action-packed sequences but for the unique bond it represents between its leading stars. The film’s title, translating to “Big sir little sir,” encapsulates more than its literal meaning; it embodies a relationship of deep respect and brotherhood, echoing the camaraderie shared by Kumar and Shroff both on and off the screen.
Despite the challenges posed by the often ego-centric nature of the film industry, particularly among leading action stars, Kumar, 56, and Shroff, 34, have defied expectations. Their collaboration in Abu Dhabi, where much of the movie was shot, fostered a familial bond, transcending the typical competitive dynamics. Shroff recounts their time on set, emphasizing the unity and teamwork that prevailed, even after exhausting action shoots. This sense of solidarity was also mirrored in their leisure activities, with the duo often engaging in sports, further cementing their bond.
Abu Dhabi played a pivotal role in the film’s production, offering a conducive environment for shooting high-octane action scenes, reminiscent of the city’s contributions to global blockbusters like the “Mission: Impossible” series. Kumar lauds Abu Dhabi’s film-friendly atmosphere and the support provided, which were instrumental in executing the film’s climactic sequences.
Highlighting over three decades in the action genre, Kumar sees “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” as a peak in his illustrious career, attributing its unprecedented action quality to the vision of action director Craig Macrae. Macrae, known for his work in Hollywood blockbusters, brought a new level of expertise to Bollywood’s action narrative, pushing the envelope further than ever before.
The film’s release post-Covid-19 comes at a crucial time when the industry seeks to lure audiences back to theaters with larger-than-life cinematic experiences. Kumar emphasizes the need for films to offer unique, immersive experiences that cannot be replicated at home, hoping to reignite the pre-pandemic glory of cinema halls.
For Shroff, the film represents an opportunity to consolidate his identity as a premier action star in Bollywood. He expresses gratitude for the audience’s acceptance and looks forward to exploring diverse roles within the action genre, aiming to blend it with comedy, drama, romance, and horror.
Kumar, drawing parallels with Tom Cruise’s relentless commitment to performing stunts, expresses a desire to continue pushing his physical limits. He admires Shroff’s agility and dedication to action, which has set new benchmarks in Bollywood cinema.
The film also touches upon the theme of artificial intelligence, weaving it into the storyline to reflect contemporary technological anxieties and curiosities. Kumar views AI as a significant element of future storytelling and real-world application, hinting at the evolving narrative landscapes in Bollywood and beyond.
“Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” thus stands as a testament to enduring friendships, evolving action cinema, and the broader thematic shifts in Bollywood, marking a significant chapter in the careers of Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff.