‘Tehran’, starring John Abraham, sets itself up as a geopolitical thriller that aims to fuse action with intrigue. The premise, rooted in espionage and the volatile interplay of borders, promises tension and urgency. What unfolds, however, feels like a patchwork of familiar beats rather than a gripping cinematic experience.
John Abraham, known for stoic and physically charged performances, stays loyal to his established persona. He carries the role with his trademark intensity, but the film rarely demands more from him than the stare, the stride, and the occasional measured outburst. While his presence has an undeniable impact, the character lacks depth, leaving little room for emotional engagement.
The supporting cast delivers their lines with competence, but none particularly stand out. Part of this stems from the writing, which prioritises plot mechanics over layered character work. Loyalties shift, secrets are traded, and yet the audience is seldom surprised. By the midpoint, the story’s intended tension evaporates, replaced by predictability.
Action sequences, while brisk, also feel routine. The chase scenes and confrontations check the boxes expected of a spy thriller but rarely transcend formula. The camerawork and editing are efficient without being inventive, and the score underlines moments of threat or suspense without introducing originality.
Where ‘Tehran’ falters most is in its inability to fully immerse viewers into its high-stakes setting. Though the backdrop hints at intrigue and danger, the world-building feels thin. Scenes transition swiftly, but the atmosphere never thickens into something truly convincing. The dialogue leans heavily on exposition, which undercuts tension rather than heightening it.
In all, ‘Tehran’ is not a wholly ineffective film, but it struggles to justify its own seriousness. It remains watchable but does little to linger in the memory. At two and a half stars, it is a film that functions, but seldom excites.
