When it comes to patriotic films in Bollywood, the focus is often on the India-Pakistan dynamic, with the latter usually being portrayed in a negative light. However, director Shivam Nair’s “The Diplomat” takes a different approach. Based on the true story of Uzma Ahmed, an Indian woman who was trapped in Pakistan and eventually rescued by Indian diplomat JP Singh, the film presents a more humanized narrative that refrains from demonizing the neighboring country. What sets this story apart is its surprising package – John Abraham, known for his action-packed image, takes on a more subdued and diplomatic character, keeping viewers engaged throughout the film.
The story begins with Uzma Ahmed, a Malaysian-based Indian woman played by Sadia Khateeb, who is desperate to find medical treatment for her ailing daughter. She meets Tahir, a Pakistani man played by Jagjeet Sandhu, who promises to help her and convinces her to travel to Pakistan. However, upon arrival, Uzma realizes she has been deceived and is being held captive. She manages to reach the Indian embassy and seeks help from Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh, played by John Abraham. As JP Singh navigates the complex web of diplomacy to bring Uzma back to India, the film builds up to a thrilling climax.
The film’s cast, including John Abraham, Sadia Khateeb, and Ravi Kishan, deliver solid performances. Director Shivam Nair, known for his work on films like “Naam Shabana” and the web series “Special Ops,” has done an excellent job of bringing this true story to life without resorting to melodrama. The film’s pacing may be slow at the start, but it soon picks up, with Ritish Shah’s dialogues providing some much-needed comic relief. The cinematography by Dino Popo beautifully captures the desolate and ominous landscape of Pakistan’s Khyber region.
John Abraham, in particular, shines in his role as JP Singh, bringing a sense of balance and humor to the character. In a recent interview, he spoke about the importance of taking risks in storytelling, and his decision to take on this project is a testament to that. His performance is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the film.
Uzma Ahmed’s character, played by Sadia Khateeb, is well-acted, although it could have benefited from a bit more emotional depth. The supporting cast, including Sharib Hashmi, Kumud Mishra, and Ashwath Bhatt, deliver impressive performances.
Overall, “The Diplomat” is a gripping film that tells a powerful story without resorting to jingoism or melodrama. If you’re a fan of films based on true events, or just want to see John Abraham in a different avatar, this film is definitely worth watching.
