TEHRAN 2025
by
Arun Gopalan
I appreciate John Abraham's desire to do meaningful work. Madras Cafe has its own legacy. The Diplomat was not a bad film either. Tehran is another attempt by John to venture into these thriller-kind of masala films set in geopolitical set-up. He is creating a niche for himself and I don't mind that attempt. John has also done films like Shootout at Vadala and Batla House. He should invest more in that genre as well. By sticking around for 25 years in the industry, he has proved that he has a loyal fan following and something which works for him. That is a huge achievement. Hats off to John.
Coming back to the film, it draws from real life events. A low intensity bomb was attached to the vehicle of Israeli Ambassador's wife in 2012 resulting in four injuries but no casualties. This blast carried out in Delhi created a diplomatic headache for India. We did not want to become a theatre of war. India had friendly relations with both of them. A gas pipeline deal with Iran was on the anvil. The film dramatizes these events, adds one in the list of casualties. Then places a mad Dilli Policewala at the scene. Some RAW hand makes a caustic remark. A lot of emotional tadka is added. The war becomes personal for the mad cop just like that. He goes on a war spree against Iran in Abu Dhabi and Tehran. Worried about diplomatic fallout, Indian government disowns him and his campaign, asks him to come back but he goes rogue. At one point, UAE wanted him in custody, Iran wanted him dead and Israel had dumped him. But he persists and serves justice. That is how stupid the film turns out to be. A dead orphan girl versus national interest, you decide!
The film does not falter in acting or direction. It relies upon excellent cinematography and war choreography as well as action direction. But the logic of the story fails it. Who would support a wooden-faced cop working against national interest in the name of revenge. Manushi Chiller and Aly Khan have small roles. Aly has done well as always. Anyway, well-tried I'd say.
#tehran #zee5 #johnabraham #israeliran #DelhiPolice #arungopalan #geopolitics #raw
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