Director: Arun Gopalan
Rating: ***
The 2025 spy thriller Tehran marks John Abraham’s triumphant return to gritty, politically charged cinema. Released directly on ZEE5 on August 14, 2025, and directed by Arun Gopalan, the film dives deep into the dangerous and morally ambiguous world of global intelligence. It’s a tightly woven narrative blending international politics, espionage drama, and emotional depth—delivering an engaging OTT experience for fans of realistic thrillers.
A Gripping Spy Story Rooted in Real Events
Set in the tense aftermath of the 2012 Delhi bombing targeting Israeli diplomats, Tehran follows ACP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham), a determined Special Cell officer driven by both duty and personal grief. His investigation into the attackers leads him into the heart of Iran, where the stakes rise with every move.
Abandoned by Israeli allies, distrusted by Iranian authorities, and left without official support from India, Rajeev finds himself isolated in a high-stakes geopolitical game. The screenplay shuns the traditional good vs. evil template, instead painting a morally complex picture of diplomatic maneuvering, national loyalty, and personal sacrifice.
The tension builds steadily, offering viewers a rare look into the shadowy corridors of international relations, while also shedding light on the human cost of intelligence warfare.
Powerful Performances That Elevate the Drama
John Abraham delivers one of his most restrained yet compelling performances to date. Avoiding exaggerated heroics, he embodies a man haunted by loss and driven by a relentless moral compass. His subdued intensity and realistic portrayal make Rajeev Kumar deeply relatable.
Manushi Chhillar impresses as SI Divya Rana, whose limited screen time still plays a crucial role in shaping the story’s turning points.
Neeru Bajwa, as diplomat Sheilaja, adds layers of intelligence, poise, and quiet resilience, perfectly capturing the complexities of international diplomacy.
The supporting cast—Madhurima Tuli and Hadi Khajanpour—bring authenticity, though some are given less narrative weight than they deserve.
Direction and Screenplay: Tension Without Melodrama
Director Arun Gopalan skillfully blends action and drama, ensuring that even explosive set pieces feel grounded in reality. The pacing balances adrenaline-filled chases with intimate, emotional scenes, never letting the story slip into overblown spectacle.
The screenplay, while sophisticated and politically rich, may feel dense in the first half for viewers unfamiliar with Middle Eastern geopolitics. However, its layered narrative rewards patient audiences with gripping twists and a satisfying depth of intrigue.
Technical Excellence and Realistic Action
Action Sequences
Rather than relying on gravity-defying stunts, Tehran opts for practical, high-impact action that feels authentic to real-world espionage operations. Every chase, fight, and gunfight is shot with precision, keeping the viewer on edge without sacrificing plausibility.
Cinematography
From the chaotic streets of Delhi to the stark, atmospheric landscapes of Tehran, the visuals enhance the mood of each scene. Subtle color grading and attention to environmental details immerse viewers in the tension-filled world of international covert missions.
Soundtrack
The score underlines key moments with understated intensity, amplifying suspense without overpowering the performances. It works in harmony with the narrative, especially during critical turning points.
Strengths That Make Tehran Stand Out
Realistic portrayal of espionage and geopolitical tensions.
John Abraham’s nuanced performance, breaking away from his larger-than-life action image.
Engaging and unpredictable plot with global relevance.
High production values that enhance authenticity.
Shortcomings to Consider
Some supporting roles feel underdeveloped.
The political complexity in the first act might challenge casual viewers.
A few emotional beats could have been explored more deeply.
Final Verdict & Star Rating
Tehran is not your typical loud, over-the-top spy movie—it’s a thoughtful, high-stakes thriller that demands your attention. With John Abraham’s grounded acting, an intelligently crafted screenplay, and the timeliness of its themes, this OTT release is a solid addition to the espionage genre.
