Tehran Movie Review: John Abraham’s Action-Packed Thriller Keeps You Hooked

John Abraham’s latest film, Tehran, is a thrilling ride that hit ZEE5 on August 14, 2025, just in time for Independence Day. Directed by Arun Gopalan, this action-packed geopolitical thriller is inspired by real events and keeps you glued to your screen with its suspense and drama. Starring John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, Neeru Bajwa, and others, Tehran is a must-watch for fans of intense, patriotic stories. Here’s a simple review of what makes this movie special.

What’s the Story?

Tehran is set in 2012 and draws inspiration from a real-life attack on an Israeli diplomat in India. The story follows ACP Rajiv Kumar (John Abraham), a tough and determined police officer known for his bold style. When a gangster threatens his family, Rajiv takes him down without hesitation. Soon after, a bomb explodes in the car of an Israeli diplomat in Delhi, injuring several people, including a six-year-old girl who tragically dies.

Investigations reveal that Iran may be behind the attack, and Rajiv is chosen to handle this sensitive case. But things aren’t as simple as they seem. Rajiv faces dangerous challenges, international politics, and a high-stakes mission that puts his life and a major deal for India at risk. Will he succeed? That’s what keeps you watching.

Why Is Tehran Exciting?

Director Arun Gopalan has done a fantastic job making Tehran feel real and gripping. Here’s what stands out:

• Thrilling Action and Suspense: The movie is full of heart-pounding moments, from bomb blasts to intense chases. Some scenes are so shocking they’ll leave you stunned, but they keep you hooked.
• John Abraham’s Powerful Role: John shines as ACP Rajiv Kumar, a serious and fearless officer. His action scenes, especially toward the end, are exactly what fans love him for. He even speaks Farsi in parts, adding a unique touch.
• Strong Cast: Manushi Chhillar plays S.I. Divya Rana, a brave and dedicated officer, while Neeru Bajwa is Sheilaja, a strong and emotional character. Other actors like Madhurima Tuli, Ali Khan, and Hadi Khanjanpour also deliver great performances.
• Realistic Storytelling: The movie doesn’t pick sides or label anyone as good or bad. It focuses on the story and delivers a powerful message about duty and survival. Many scenes are shot in Farsi, with parts filmed in Delhi, Mumbai, and Glasgow, making it feel authentic.
• Emotional Impact: John’s dialogues hit hard, making you think about loyalty, sacrifice, and the bigger picture. The story stays with you long after the movie ends.

What’s Unique About Tehran?

Unlike typical Bollywood patriotic films, Tehran dives into the complex world of international politics and espionage. It’s inspired by real events, like the Israel-Iran conflict and the Russo-Ukrainian war, making it relatable for those interested in global issues. John Abraham himself said, “If you’re curious about the Russia-Ukraine crisis or what Iran is doing, Tehran is for you. It’s a stunning film.” The mix of Hindi, Farsi, and English dialogues adds to its realistic vibe.

The movie faced challenges with censorship in India, which is why it skipped theaters and went straight to ZEE5. John mentioned that the Ministry of External Affairs supported the film, but some scenes were cut to get approval for streaming. Despite this, the story remains strong and engaging.

Any Downsides?

The music in Tehran is decent but not very memorable. Some intense scenes, like the bomb blast aftermath, might be hard to watch for sensitive viewers. Also, because parts of the movie are in Farsi, you’ll need to follow subtitles if you don’t understand the language.

Why Watch Tehran?

Tehran is a perfect mix of action, suspense, and a thought-provoking story. It’s not just another patriotic film but a deep dive into loyalty, survival, and global tensions. John Abraham’s rugged look and powerful acting, along with a talented cast, make it a gripping watch. The movie’s tagline, “Hunted by Iran, Abandoned by Israel, Deserted by India,” sums up the thrilling journey of Rajiv Kumar.

You can stream Tehran on ZEE5 (via OTTplay Premium) starting August 14, 2025. It’s a great pick for Independence Day, offering both entertainment and a peek into real-world issues. Fans of John Abraham’s action films like Parmanu or Madras Cafe will love this one.