There are several ways to elevate heroism in movies. However, this is not about the types of heroism in films we are dealing with. This is about timing in elevate the strengths of heroes we are talking about. Incidentally, legendary directors Darshakendrudu K Raghavendra Rao and Kala Tapaswi K Viswanadh would follow two divergent strategies to exploit heroism in films.
KRR's heroes usually would acquire all strengths right from the first frame to the last frame of the film. In order to highlight their heroism, a high octane action sequence would shot on the hero in the beginning of the film. And the same energy levels were maintained by hero throughout the film. Incidentally, the same principle is being applied by maximum number of filmmakers right now. Power Star Pawan Kalyan's 'Katamarayudu' stands the latest example on this view. KRR's strategy stands always the best to attract audience. Since too many movies are being made elevating heroism without showing any creativtiy, audience hardly find variations in hero's characterization.
On the other hand, K Viswanadh's hero was initially shown simple and ordinary or innocent. Explicitly, the same hero would turn extraordinary and great human at the end. KV's movies such as, Swayamkrushi, Sagarasangamam, Swathimuthyam etc. stood as the best examples. However, KV's movies were made as class entertainers with due importance given to classical music, culture, traditions and heritage of Telugu people.
Commercial directors can adopt the idea of showing hero from common man or innocent to the great human being or powerful personality inducting all commercial elements. Audience, obviously, may get thrilled and feel real kick in watching such heroism.