The Diplomat Movie Review: John Abraham Delivers a Compelling Performance in This Tense Political Thriller
John Abraham takes a step away from his usual action-packed roles to deliver a gripping performance in The Diplomat, a film that successfully blends real-life events with political intrigue.
Directed by Shivam Nair and penned by Ritesh Shah, the movie is inspired by the true story of Uzma Ahmed, an Indian woman who was allegedly lured into a fraudulent marriage in Pakistan and later sought refuge in the Indian embassy. Abraham portrays Indian diplomat J.P. Singh, whose relentless efforts led to Uzma’s safe return.
The film benefits immensely from John Abraham’s controlled and nuanced portrayal of a diplomat working against the odds. Often criticized for his limited acting range, Abraham proves his mettle here, delivering a performance that is subtle yet effective. He forgoes his usual high-octane action sequences in favor of dialogue-driven intensity, and it works in his favor. Sadia Khateeb, as Uzma Ahmed, brings emotional depth to her role, portraying a woman caught in a desperate situation with remarkable authenticity. Supporting performances from Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, and Revathy further strengthen the film’s credibility, making the narrative feel grounded and engaging.
The screenplay is well-structured, keeping the tension palpable throughout. Unlike many political thrillers that rely on exaggerated patriotism, The Diplomat maintains a balanced approach, focusing more on the diplomatic strategies and real-life challenges faced by foreign service officials. Critics have commended this aspect, highlighting that the film avoids unnecessary jingoism and instead tells the story with sincerity. That being said, some moments do feel a bit stretched, especially when the narrative dives into the protagonist’s personal life. While this adds some depth to the character, it occasionally slows the film’s momentum.
Visually, The Diplomat is sleek, with well-framed shots that highlight both the high-stakes nature of diplomacy and the emotional struggles of its central characters. The background score, composed by Manan Bhardwaj and Anurag Saikia, complements the film’s serious tone, with a particularly stirring rendition of “Bharat” from Roja adding to its patriotic undercurrent.
Audience reactions have been largely positive, with many praising the film for shedding light on a real-life incident that deserved attention. The IMDb ratings reflect this sentiment, with viewers appreciating the film’s taut storytelling and strong performances. At the box office, The Diplomat has had a steady start, collecting around ₹10 crore in its opening weekend, proving that audiences are willing to embrace politically charged dramas when executed well.
Overall, The Diplomat is an engaging watch, powered by John Abraham’s refined performance and a well-paced script. While it may not be an adrenaline-fueled thriller, it succeeds as a tense and thought-provoking drama that showcases the less-explored world of diplomacy.
Final Rating: ★★★½ (3.5/5)
