'Ground Zero' Public Review by IANS: Theatres Mostly Empty, Mixed Audience Reactions on First Day
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Synopsis
Emraan Hashmi's film 'Ground Zero' opened to disappointing audience turnout in Mumbai and Delhi. Reactions varied from praise for performances to criticism of its slow pacing and predictable plot, leaving some viewers underwhelmed despite its relevance to current events.
Key Takeaways
- High expectations met with disappointment.
- Mixed audience feedback on performances and plot.
- Critiques focused on slow pacing and predictable story.
- Emraan Hashmi’s performance was praised, yet the screenplay fell short.
- Film based on Operation Ghazi Baba, a significant military mission.
Mumbai, April 25 (NationPress) Emraan Hashmi’s newest film, “Ground Zero,” debuted in theaters amid significant anticipation, yet the initial audience reaction has been disappointing.
As per a public review from IANS, the film experienced nearly empty theaters in various parts of Mumbai and Delhi, with audience feedback ranging from commendations for the performances to critiques of the plot. In both cities, very few attendees were spotted in cinema halls on the film's first day. While some viewers admired the intense storyline and strong performances—notably Hashmi's captivating presence—others criticized the pacing as sluggish and the narrative as lacking the impact expected from a film in this genre.
Several individuals labeled it as “decent but forgettable,” while others expressed that they came to see Emraan Hashmi but left feeling disappointed by the screenplay. One moviegoer stated to IANS, “Ground Zero is a good movie. It’s based on a true story — the 2005 Operation Ghazi Baba. The film addresses terrorism and is quite relevant to today’s climate. I believe everyone should watch this film, especially in light of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The narrative is strong, the music is pleasant, and the film possesses emotional depth. Overall, it’s a commendable movie.”
Another viewer commented, “I had no expectations from the film. Since it was produced by Excel Entertainment, I anticipated something fresh and impactful—but that didn’t materialize. Emraan Hashmi delivered a commendable performance, but without a compelling story or screenplay, it simply doesn’t succeed. The plot felt conventional. They could have expanded the film significantly. Moreover, it didn’t sufficiently showcase the army’s narrative. The primary concern, however, is the insufficient marketing.”
Another attendee noted, “The film is decent. We came to see it for Emraan Hashmi, but the story is just average—not overly dull, though. The first half is relatively good.”
One patron remarked, “The movie is very good. We had been eager for Emraan Hashmi to return with a strong project, especially after his previous film, which didn’t impress. This one, however, fulfills that promise. His performance is robust.”
Some members of the audience felt that the film lacked a compelling storyline and engaging screenplay, labeling the plot as “routine” and predictable. A few even suggested that given the subject matter, the creators had the opportunity to develop a much grander and more impactful film.
In related news, ‘Ground Zero,’ directed by Tejas Deoskar, features Emraan Hashmi as BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey. This gripping action thriller is inspired by a pivotal mission—one that resulted in the elimination of Ghazi Baba. This mission is recognized as the BSF’s most successful operation in five decades.
The film officially premiered in theaters today, April 25.
