R. Madhavan's latest venture, Aap Jaisa Koi, streaming on Netflix, delves into modern love with a narrative that attempts to redefine the portrayal of heroes in contemporary storytelling. The film, directed by Vivek Soni, stars Madhavan as Shrirenu Tripathi, a middle-aged Sanskrit professor, and Fatima Sana Shaikh as Madhu Bose, a spirited French instructor. Set against the backdrop of Jamshedpur and Kolkata, the film explores their relationship as it faces societal expectations and familial opposition, touching upon themes of compatibility and equality in modern relationships.

Aap Jaisa Koi presents Shrirenu as a "nerdy boy" grappling with insecurities and societal conditioning. He is portrayed as someone who is sweet yet awkward, and still a virgin, making him instantly relatable. This contrasts with the traditional image of a hero, who is often depicted as flawless and confident. Modern storytelling embraces flawed characters, recognizing that imperfections add complexity and depth, making them more human.

The film subtly challenges patriarchal norms, presenting Madhu as an assertive and confident woman who knows her mind. In one scene, when Shrirenu patronizingly suggests that he would "allow" her certain freedoms after marriage, Madhu questions his right to decide her limits. This highlights the film's commentary on gender equality and the importance of mutual respect in relationships. The narrative explores the idea that love should be equal, emphasizing that women don't need permission from men to make decisions about their lives.

The relatability of modern heroes stems from their vulnerabilities and emotional depth. Aap Jaisa Koi attempts to showcase this by portraying Shrirenu's internal biases and insecurities as he navigates his relationship with Madhu. He is forced to confront his patriarchal mindset, making him a more realistic and relatable character. While Madhavan's performance is generally praised for capturing the nuances of Shrirenu's character, some critics note that the writing and execution of these themes could have been more nuanced.

While Aap Jaisa Koi has garnered appreciation for its fresh take on modern love and exploration of societal issues, some reviews point out its shortcomings. The film tries to address too many ideas at once, resulting in a lack of depth and nuance. Some critics feel that the film becomes too preachy and overstuffed with topics, which ultimately affects its execution. Despite these criticisms, the film's attempt to portray a hero who is vulnerable, flawed, and grappling with societal expectations is a step in the right direction for modern storytelling.

The film's success lies in its ability to initiate conversations about patriarchy, age gaps, and societal pressures within the framework of a love story. Although the narrative may not be perfect, the performances of Madhavan and Shaikh, along with the film's underlying message, resonate with viewers. By presenting heroes who are not larger-than-life but rather ordinary individuals dealing with extraordinary circumstances, modern storytelling can create a stronger connection with audiences.