Bha Bha Ba Movie FIRST Review: Is Dileep Starrer Worth Your Time? Know Here

Malayalam actor Dileep faces a defining moment as Bha Bha Ba releases worldwide days after his acquittal. With public opinion divided and box-office pressure mounting, the film could decide his long-debated comeback

Malayalam actor Dileep stands at a decisive moment in his career as his big-budget commercial film Bha Bha Ba releases worldwide on December 18, just ten days after his acquittal in the 2017 actress assault case. For the actor once celebrated as the “Janapriyanayakan,” the film is not merely another release but a crucial test of his relevance and survival in an industry that has largely moved on.

At the height of his popularity, Dileep was among the most powerful figures in Malayalam cinema, with a stardom often compared to that of Mammootty and Mohanlal. He wielded significant influence, simultaneously leading key industry bodies representing actors, distributors, and exhibitors. That dominance, however, crumbled after the allegations surfaced in 2017. The controversy severely damaged his public image, coinciding with a series of box-office disappointments and opening the door for younger actors to claim the space he once controlled.

Although the court has cleared Dileep of all charges, public opinion remains deeply divided. The survivor’s recent remarks suggesting that the real mastermind behind the crime was still at large have reignited debate, keeping the controversy alive across social media and news platforms. A recent incident underscored the shifting mood: female passengers on a state-run bus reportedly objected to the screening of an older Dileep film, forcing the conductor to stop it. This moment proved significant because women and family audiences had traditionally been the backbone of his fan base. If that segment continues to withdraw support, the road to a meaningful comeback could become increasingly narrow.

About The Movie

Directed by Dhananjay Shankar, Bha Bha Ba features an ensemble cast including Dhyan Sreenivasan, Sandy, Balu Varghese, Baiju Santhosh, Ashokan, Devan, and Riyaz Khan. The film’s music has been composed by Shaan Rahman, with Gopi Sundar providing the background score. Cinematography is handled by Armo, while Ranjan Abraham serves as the editor.

The film’s promotional material leans strongly into the idea of redemption and return. The trailer, in particular, uses self-referential moments that appear to acknowledge Dileep’s real-life struggles, subtly framing the narrative as one of resurgence. This deliberate positioning suggests an attempt to reconnect with audiences by addressing the elephant in the room rather than ignoring it.

With protests still simmering and his recent box-office record offering little reassurance, the pressure on Bha Bha Ba is immense. The central question remains whether a traditional commercial entertainer can help Dileep overcome years of controversy or whether audiences have permanently shifted their loyalty elsewhere.

The film’s soundtrack is created by Shaan Rahman, with Gopi Sundar providing the background score. Action scenes are designed by Kalai Kingson and Supreme Sundar, while dance sequences are choreographed by Sandy, who is also part of the cast. Costumes are designed by Dhanya Balakrishnan and Venkit Sunil, and Ronex Xavier heads the makeup department.

As the film releases today, attention now turns to audience reactions and online conversations. Netizens’ responses may provide the clearest early indication of whether this release marks the beginning of a revival or confirms a definitive turning point in Dileep’s cinematic journey.