

After a bombing in Delhi, officer RK travels to Tehran to investigate, only to find himself in grave danger as Iran targets him. Abandoned by India, he must navigate a hostile environment to uncover the truth and survive, facing both enemies and betrayal at every turn.
August 14
2025
Release Date
Hindi
English
Language
55 minutes
1 hour
Running Time
Available on
Cast


John Abraham


Manushi Chhillar


Madhurima Tuli


Alyy Khan


Neeru Bajwa














Hadi Khanjanpour














Adam Karst














Allon Sylvain














Ido Samuel














Qaushiq Mukherjee














Advin














Arnob Khan Akib














Mirza Azhar














Shyam Bhimsaria














Nigel Billing














Louise Burke














Sushil Dahiya














Desmond Edwards
3.0
Average Rating
The above-mentioned average rating is based on the derived ratings of multiple review platforms
OH Review


Tehran Review
Plot
"Tehran" spins a captivating tale that intertwines personal vengeance and the weighty matters of geopolitical tension, making for an intense narrative experience. The film is inspired by true events, focusing on the tragic 2012 car bomb explosion outside the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi that leads to the loss of an innocent child—a poignant catalyst for the story's unfolding drama. John Abraham stars as Rajeev Kumar, an Indian special cell officer on a mission of justice following this tragic incident. He is driven not only by duty but also by a personal vendetta against those responsible, especially given that the life lost was that of a street kid roughly the same age as his own daughter. From the start, the film establishes a sense of urgency, plunging the audience straight into a world briefed on the dangerous entanglements of international relationships. The narrative gradually reveals the labyrinthine connections between India, Israel, and Iran, showcasing how personal and political lives are interwoven in complex, often morally ambiguous ways. As Rajeev navigates the treacherous waters of espionage and political maneuvering, he faces interaction with various factions, each driven by their motivations and national interests. As the story progresses, Rajeev's determination leads him beyond the borders of India into the heart of Tehran, where danger lurks at every corner. The film tackles significant themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the often-unseen sacrifices made by those in the shadows of conflict. The political atmosphere reverberates throughout the movie, and while the intricacies of international relations are showcased, the emotional weight of individual loss threads through each plot twist, reminding viewers of the human cost of larger political games. However, "Tehran" can sometimes feel bogged down by its ambitious scope. While the initial premise is emotionally charged, the execution occasionally struggles to maintain the necessary balance between action and character development. The complex narrative and subplots can be overwhelming for viewers not well-versed in the historical tensions between these nations. Additionally, the emotional connection to the story sometimes falters, leaving audiences wanting deeper dives into the characters' psychological landscapes. Overall, “Tehran” offers a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary issues while serving as a reminder of the individual lives at stake in a politically charged world.
Acting
John Abraham delivers a nuanced performance as Rajeev Kumar, a character marked by both external strength and internal conflict. Unlike his previous roles, which often bask in overt heroism and charm, Abraham takes on a more subdued portrayal that shows the weight of his character's burdens. His embodiment of Rajeev is marked by an intensity that manifests through measured actions rather than flamboyant dialogues. He effectively conveys the psychological strain of carrying out a mission against the backdrop of immense personal loss, and it’s this subtlety that stands out in his performance. Supporting him are notable performances from Manushi Chhillar as S.I. Divya, a fellow officer who complements Rajeev with her own brand of tenacity. While her role may not be the most extensive, Chhillar's portrayal adds layers to the narrative, showcasing an officer who is unwavering in her beliefs even as diplomatic tensions escalate. Neeru Bajwa's portrayal of Shailja serves as the moral compass for the narrative. Her character provides an emotional anchor, making the stakes feel real while balancing the heavier themes presented in the film. Hadi Khanjanpour’s role as the antagonist injects necessary tension into the narrative, providing a formidable presence that raises the stakes for Rajeev's mission. Despite the compelling performances, some characters feel underdeveloped, leaving the audience craving a deeper exploration of their motivations. While the main cast shines, the multitude of supporting roles can sometimes dilute the emotional focus of the film. This is particularly evident in scenes rich with potential emotional currency that, due to the crowded narrative, do not hit as hard as they could have. Overall, while the performances are impressive and genuinely engaging, the depth of each character is occasionally sacrificed for the multi-layered plot. Nevertheless, the cast brings to life a complex script, contributing to the tension and urgency required for a geopolitical thriller. Their dedication ensures that, despite any shortcomings, "Tehran" remains a film that resonates through its actors' portrayals and the emotional journeys they undergo.
Cinematography
The cinematography in "Tehran" stands as one of its most impressive attributes, capturing both the intimate and broader scopes of its narrative with remarkable skill. Ievgen Gubrebko and Andre Menezes take viewers through a visually rich landscape that ranges from the bustling streets of Delhi to the shadowy alleys of Tehran, enveloping audiences in this geopolitical thriller's atmosphere. The film’s visuals play a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling, as every frame is orchestrated to evoke feelings of tension and urgency. The cinematographic style avoids the glossy, over-polished approach often seen in mainstream cinema. Instead, it leans heavily on realism to lend credibility to its narrative and characters. The actions unfold seamlessly within their settings, making the world of espionage feel palpable and urgent. The chaos of street life, combined with moments of tension during high-stakes actions, is captured in a raw yet meticulously curated style that keeps viewers engaged. Action scenes are choreographed and shot with an authenticity that elevates the stakes. Unlike many action films that rely on a barrage of special effects or exaggerated stunts, "Tehran" opts for grounded realism, utilizing the environment to heighten the tension. This style serves to immerse the audience directly within the conflict, making for edge-of-your-seat moments during chase sequences and confrontations. Another hallmark of the cinematography is its emotive use of light and shadow. There is a deliberate interplay between darkness and illumination that underscores the themes of espionage, betrayal, and moral ambiguity permeating the film. Cinematic techniques such as close-up shots convey characters' emotions effectively, while wide shots of the urban landscape emphasize their isolation in a world caught in turmoil. While some viewers might find themselves yearning for more dynamic transitions or vibrant color palettes typical of contemporary cinema, the aesthetic choices made in "Tehran" align with the film's somber tone and gravity. The background score by Ketan Sodha complements the visuals, maintaining the film's pulse and driving home the emotional beats without veering into melodrama. Overall, the cinematography serves as the backbone of "Tehran," providing both a visual narrative that supports the plot and emotional resonance that pulls viewers into the characters' journeys. The effective use of real locations, nuanced framing, and well-executed action sequences combine to create an engaging aesthetic that enhances the film's message and emotional impact.
Direction
Arun Gopalan’s directorial debut in "Tehran" marks a significant entry into the realm of high-stakes geopolitical thrillers. He displays a penchant for creating an atmosphere that is both charged and contemplative, effectively balancing the film's intense action with the deeper moral questions it raises. Gopalan's vision is reflected in every frame, guiding the audience through a maze of political intrigue and personal sacrifice with purpose and clarity. The pacing of the film is another testament to Gopalan's directorial skills. He effectively manages to uphold a tense rhythm that rarely falters while allowing moments for reflection. This duality is achieved through a careful selection of scene transitions, pacing architecture, and a keen eye for detail. Rather than succumbing to the allure of melodrama, Gopalan employs a more mature, measured approach, allowing the narrative’s instructions to penetrate deeply without overwhelming the audience with excessive exposition. Gopalan's direction emphasizes character-driven storytelling. By grounding the film in the personal stakes of the protagonist, he ensures that viewers remain emotionally engaged with Rajeev's journey. The absence of bombastic dialogues and spectacle highlights the film's emotional and intellectual cores, urging audiences to contemplate rather than merely consume. Through his lens, Gopalan captures the disillusionment that often accompanies duty, especially when that duty appears to conflict with national interests. However, while Gopalan's direction is generally commendable, there are moments where the ambitious narrative can feel overloaded. The abundance of characters and subplots at times detracts from the emotional core of the film, leaving viewers feeling slightly disconnected from certain story threads. This complexity occasionally requires the audience to catch up rather than feel fully immersed, presenting a challenge that some viewers might find frustrating. Nevertheless, Gopalan's willingness to tackle a complex geopolitical context is noteworthy, distinguishing "Tehran" as an audacious addition to Indian cinema. His ability to weave personal narrative against the backdrop of intricate international politics reflects a mature understanding of both storytelling and the real-world issues that inspire it. Overall, Gopalan’s direction in "Tehran" stands as a daring exploration of themes often relegated to the sidelines in mainstream thrillers, offering a narrative that is both reflective and gripping. His ability to encapsulate the intricacies of espionage alongside the weight of personal loss makes for a powerful, thought-provoking film that's both ambitious and strikingly compelling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Tehran" emerges as a bold and ambitious attempt to delve into the dark alleys of political espionage while grounding its narrative in deeply personal stakes. While the film is not without its flaws—ranging from a convoluted plot to a lack of emotional connection in certain parts—it succeeds in creating a tense atmosphere filled with moments of raw intensity and complex character dynamics. John Abraham’s performance, along with strong supporting roles, brings to life a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. The film’s visual storytelling is commendable, with a documentary-like feel crafted by the exceptional cinematography that captures the essence of geopolitical strife with realism and urgency. Arun Gopalan's direction stands out for its restraint and maturity, exploring themes of duty and sacrifice against the complex backdrop of international relations without resorting to oversimplified narratives. However, it’s worth noting that "Tehran" isn't a conventional action film—its slow pacing and dense dialogue may alienate some viewers, particularly those seeking straightforward entertainment. Those willing to engage with its intricacies will find a well-crafted narrative that challenges them to think critically about the geopolitical realities it portrays. Overall, "Tehran" appeals to audiences looking for a grounded geopolitical thriller rooted in authenticity and emotional weight, even if it may not be the blockbuster thriller aimed at mass appeal. With its combination of action, profound ethical questions, and character studies, the film represents a refreshing new direction for Bollywood storytelling. As a nuanced take on serious themes, "Tehran" deserves its place in the cinema landscape, prompting audiences not just to watch but to engage with the more profound implications of its narrative.
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