Could 'Tehran' Be the Most Gripping Thriller of the Year?

Mumbai, Aug 14 (NationPress) Stars: (4 stars), Director – Arun Gopalan
Cast – John Abraham, Neeru Bajwa, Manushi Chhillar, Hadi Khajanpour
Duration – 118 Minutes
‘Tehran’ ignites excitement on multiple levels, presenting a gritty, authentic thriller where politics, pain, and patriotism intertwine. This gripping geo-political thriller is rooted in the real-life events surrounding the 2012 attack on Israeli diplomats in India, delving deep into the chaotic, murky waters of global politics.

From the outset, the film establishes that it will not adhere to a simplistic good versus evil narrative. Instead, it dives straight into the grey areas of diplomacy, espionage, and personal tragedy.

The narrative begins with a sobering voiceover discussing the enduring tension between Iran and Israel, illustrating how decades of covert operations and retaliations have shaped political strategies behind closed doors. A bombing in Delhi triggers the central plot, injuring numerous individuals and claiming the life of a flower-selling girl. This moment is haunting and serves as an immediate anchor to the film's painful reality. DCP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham), part of Delhi Police’s Special Cell, is assigned to the case. However, this is more than a mere job for him — he had a personal connection to the victim. For Rajeev, the stakes are deeply personal.

In ‘Tehran’, John Abraham steps into one of his most politically charged and performance-driven roles. He delivers a remarkable portrayal, shedding the loud, chest-thumping action hero persona we often associate with him. Instead, John embodies a man of few words, burdened by duty, anger, and a sense of helplessness. His performance brings a quiet intensity to Rajeev, effectively portraying the emotional trauma and moral ambiguity faced by even the most capable officers in the aftermath of such violence. This is undoubtedly one of his most committed and nuanced performances in recent years — a testament to how silence can often convey more than words.

Manushi Chhillar, as SI Divya Rana, has limited screen time, yet her role is crucial to the plot's twists. Although she may not be the most vocal character, her presence is powerful, and her contribution to the narrative is impactful. This casting choice is commendable, as she seamlessly fits into the film’s realistic tone.

Neeru Bajwa plays Sheilaja, a diplomat navigating the complex world of international diplomacy. She brings both elegance and authority to her role, enhancing the film’s political landscape. Her look and style are sharp, embodying the kind of poised complexity required in such roles — someone who possesses more knowledge than they reveal.

Then there’s the antagonist. Hadi Khajanpour portrays the suspected terrorist Asraf Khan with chilling accuracy. He is menacing without slipping into caricature. The performances of the antagonists are so convincingly portrayed that you’ll find yourself genuinely despising their characters — a testament to effective casting and direction.

What distinguishes ‘Tehran’ from many commercial thrillers is its refusal to oversimplify complex issues. The screenplay (by Ritesh Shah, Ashish P. Verma, and Bindni Karia) maintains a careful balance — delivering tense sequences and dramatic confrontations while tactfully engaging with the politically charged topic of the 2012 attacks. The film presents India’s position with nuance — caught between global powers, striving for neutrality while seeking justice. The dialogue is informative without being preachy, utilizing tightly wound scenes that keep viewers on edge.

The action sequences adhere to international standards — crisp, believable, and never excessive. Each explosion, chase, and standoff is rooted in realism, elevating the stakes. These are not superhero-style set pieces — they are brutal and intense, reflecting how such situations would unfold in reality.

Visually, ‘Tehran’ is stunning. The cinematography by Ievgen Gubrebko and Andre Menezes is exceptional. Whether showcasing the dusty streets and dimly lit chawls of Delhi or the cold, barren landscapes of Abu Dhabi, every location is framed to reflect the mood of the characters. The color grading subtly shifts with the narrative — warm and familiar in Rajeev’s home life, stark and unsettling during overseas operations. This adds depth without drawing attention to itself.

The music by Ketan Sodha effectively heightens tension and underscores emotion without overwhelming the viewer. Akshara Prabhakar’s editing keeps the film tight and engaging. It never lags, even as it allows emotional moments to resonate.

A standout aspect in the second half occurs when Rajeev goes rogue. With the Indian government hesitating due to diplomatic concerns, Rajeev’s mission transforms into a personal, unofficial endeavor. This tonal shift amplifies urgency and illustrates how thin the line is between right and wrong in the world of espionage. Every choice feels precarious. Every action could have dire consequences.

Another strength of the film is its character development. The director ensures that every role, even those on the periphery, is given importance. Their stories and motivations are relevant, layered, and never seem tacked on. Whether it’s Rajeev’s tender moments at home or side characters with their own agendas, the film treats its ensemble with respect.

Ultimately, what makes ‘Tehran’ impactful is its refusal to tie everything up neatly. It acknowledges that real-world conflicts seldom offer clean resolutions. This is a film about flawed individuals doing what they believe is right — or what they are instructed to believe is right — in a world that doesn’t always reward honesty or bravery.

Produced by Maddock Films and Bake My Cake Films, ‘Tehran’ may not cater to everyone’s taste. Some viewers may perceive the pacing as slow in parts, and a few characters could have benefitted from further development. However, for those who appreciate intelligent thrillers rooted in reality — infused with global stakes and emotional depth — this film delivers. It is bold, serious, and undoubtedly worth watching.

Available for streaming exclusively on ZEE5.