The Tehran movie, released on August 14, 2025, has taken the world of Indian cinema by storm. This Hindi-language spy action thriller, directed by Arun Gopalan, dives deep into a world of espionage, betrayal, and geopolitical tension. Inspired by the real-life 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats, Tehran combines high-stakes drama with emotional depth. It stars John Abraham, Neeru Bajwa, and Manushi Chhillar, delivering a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat. In this blog post, we’ll explore every aspect of the movie, from its plot and cast to its themes and reception. With a runtime of 116 minutes, this film is a must-watch for fans of thrillers and geopolitical dramas. Let’s break it down in detail.
Tehran Movie: A Gripping Spy Thriller That Explores Geopolitics and Personal Struggles

Tehran is not your typical Bollywood action flick. It’s a carefully crafted story that blends real-world events with fictional drama. The film premiered on ZEE5 on August 14, 2025, and later became available on Netflix on August 27, 2025, making it a rare Indian film to stream on two major OTT platforms. Directed by Arun Gopalan in his debut, the movie is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Shobhna Yadav, and Sandeep Leyzell under Maddock Films and Bake My Cake Films. With a star-studded cast and a plot rooted in the 2012 Delhi bombing, Tehran offers a fresh take on the spy thriller genre.
The movie’s strength lies in its ability to balance action with emotion. It doesn’t rely on over-the-top stunts or unnecessary drama. Instead, it focuses on the human cost of espionage and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. Whether you’re a fan of intense thrillers or interested in global politics, Tehran has something for everyone.
Plot Summary: A Tale of Revenge and Betrayal 🕵️♂️
The story of Tehran begins in 2012 with a devastating car bomb explosion outside the Iranian embassy in Delhi. The blast claims the life of an innocent young girl, leaving ACP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham), a Special Cell officer, deeply shaken. The girl was someone he knew personally, making the tragedy hit close to home. Determined to seek justice, Rajeev takes on the case with a personal motive.
As he digs deeper, Rajeev uncovers a web of international espionage involving India, Iran, and Israel. The bombing is linked to the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats, with Iran allegedly retaliating against Israel’s actions. Rajeev’s investigation leads him to Afshar Hosseini (Hadi Khanjanpour), the man responsible for the attack. Against the orders of his superiors, who want to hand the case to RAW (India’s external intelligence agency), Rajeev decides to pursue the truth on his own.
His mission takes him to Tehran, where he’s joined by his junior officer, SI Divya Rana (Manushi Chhillar). As they navigate a dangerous world of spies and double-crosses, Rajeev finds himself abandoned by his own country and targeted by Iranian intelligence. Forced to go rogue, he faces betrayals, fragile alliances, and a geopolitical power struggle. The film explores whether Rajeev can uncover the truth before it’s too late, all while grappling with his personal grief.
The plot is spoiler-free but intense. It keeps you guessing about who to trust. The story spans multiple countries, including India, Iran, and Georgia, adding a global dimension to the narrative. It’s a slow burn at times, but the tension never lets up.
Cast and Characters: Bringing the Story to Life 🌟
The cast of Tehran is one of its biggest strengths. Each actor delivers a performance that adds depth to the story. Here’s a breakdown of the main characters and the actors who play them:
Actor | Character | Description |
---|---|---|
John Abraham | ACP Rajeev Kumar | A determined Special Cell officer driven by personal loss and a quest for justice. |
Neeru Bajwa | Sheilaja | A strong and layered character who provides emotional support and moral clarity. |
Manushi Chhillar | SI Divya Rana | Rajeev’s junior officer, bringing intelligence and courage to the mission. |
Madhurima Tuli | Vandana | Rajeev’s wife, adding an emotional anchor to his personal struggles. |
Hadi Khanjanpour | Afshar Hosseini | The antagonist responsible for the Delhi bombing, a complex and cunning figure. |
Elnaaz Norouzi | Layla | A mysterious character caught in the web of espionage. |
Alyy Khan | Neeraj | A key figure in the geopolitical drama, with ambiguous motives. |
Ido Samuel | Yusuf | A supporting character involved in the international conflict. |
John Abraham shines as Rajeev Kumar. His stoic and intense performance makes the character feel real. He conveys pain and determination without overacting. Manushi Chhillar, as Divya, proves she’s more than just a former beauty queen. Her role is action-packed yet emotionally nuanced. Neeru Bajwa’s Sheilaja adds heart to the story, balancing the film’s darker themes. The supporting cast, including Hadi Khanjanpour and Elnaaz Norouzi, adds authenticity to the international setting.
Themes and Messages: Duty vs. Conscience 🤔
Tehran isn’t just about action. It dives into complex themes that make you think. Here are some of the key ideas explored in the film:
- Duty vs. Personal Conscience: Rajeev’s journey is about balancing his professional responsibilities with his personal need for justice. The film asks whether following orders is always the right choice when innocent lives are at stake.
- Geopolitical Tensions: The movie sheds light on the real-world conflict between Iran and Israel. It doesn’t take sides but shows how ordinary people get caught in the crossfire of political games.
- Betrayal and Trust: Rajeev faces betrayal from those he trusts most, including his own government. The film explores the fragility of alliances in the world of espionage.
- Sacrifice and Loss: The death of the young girl haunts Rajeev, driving his mission. The film portrays sacrifice as unglamorous and deeply personal.
These themes make Tehran more than just a thriller. It’s a story about human struggles in a world where loyalty is never guaranteed.
Direction and Cinematography: Crafting a Tense Atmosphere 🎬
Arun Gopalan, making his directorial debut, does an impressive job. He keeps the pacing tight, ensuring the tension never drops. Unlike typical Bollywood thrillers, Tehran avoids melodrama. Gopalan focuses on quiet moments to build suspense, letting the characters’ emotions drive the story.
The cinematography, handled by Ievgen Gubrebko and Andre Menezes, is stunning. The film captures the gritty streets of Delhi and the shadowy alleys of Tehran with equal skill. The use of muted colors creates a somber mood, reflecting the story’s serious tone. Action scenes are well-choreographed but not overdone, keeping the focus on the plot.
The editing by Akshara Prabhakar is crisp, ensuring the 116-minute runtime feels neither rushed nor dragged. The background score by Ketan Sodha adds to the tension, while the songs by Tanishk Bagchi and Dhruv Ghanekar are subtle and don’t distract from the narrative.
Reception and Reviews: What Critics Are Saying 📰
Tehran has received mixed but mostly positive reviews. Critics praise its authenticity and restrained storytelling but note some flaws. Here’s a summary of what reviewers are saying:
Publication | Rating | Comment |
---|---|---|
Times of India | 3.5/5 | “A tense and timely spy thriller rooted in real events.” |
The Indian Express | 2.5/5 | “John Abraham’s impassivity helps his character feel real.” |
Filmfare | 3.5/5 | “Thrives because every element works beyond formula.” |
Rotten Tomatoes (Critic) | 3/5 | “A slow burn but sharp storytelling for geopolitics fans.” |
Deccan Herald | – | “A raw, politically layered espionage drama.” |
Some critics, like Rohan Naahar from The Indian Express, feel the film tries too hard to be smart, while others, like Devesh Sharma from Filmfare, praise its authenticity. The audience rating on IMDb is 6.2/10, with 27K votes, showing it’s well-received but not universally loved.
One point of criticism is the film’s dense plot. Some viewers find it hard to follow due to the many characters and details. Others appreciate the complexity, especially those interested in geopolitics. A minor controversy arose over a factual error: the film mistakenly places the 2012 attack in the U.S. state of Georgia instead of the country of Georgia.
Why Tehran Stands Out 🌟
Tehran is different from typical Bollywood thrillers for several reasons:
- Real-World Inspiration: The film is based on the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats, giving it a grounded feel. It avoids chest-thumping patriotism, focusing on human stories instead.
- Global Perspective: The story spans India, Iran, and Georgia, offering a rare international scope for an Indian film.
- Strong Performances: John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, and Neeru Bajwa deliver nuanced performances that elevate the film.
- OTT Release Strategy: Streaming on both ZEE5 and Netflix, Tehran reaches a wide audience, a rare feat for an Indian film.
However, the film’s OTT release was a point of contention. John Abraham expressed disappointment in an interview, saying theaters were hesitant to screen the film due to its sensitive Iran-Israel theme. This led to the decision to go straight to streaming, which broke his heart as an actor who loves the big screen.
Comparison with Other Spy Thrillers 🔍
To understand Tehran’s place in Indian cinema, let’s compare it to other spy thrillers:
Movie | Year | Director | Lead Actor | Key Difference |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tehran | 2025 | Arun Gopalan | John Abraham | Focuses on geopolitics and personal grief. |
Baby | 2015 | Neeraj Pandey | Akshay Kumar | More action-heavy, less focus on emotional depth. |
Raazi | 2018 | Meghna Gulzar | Alia Bhatt | Female-led, emphasizes espionage over action. |
Ek Tha Tiger | 2012 | Kabir Khan | Salman Khan | Commercial, with larger-than-life action sequences. |
Tehran stands out for its realistic tone and focus on moral conflict. It’s less flashy than Ek Tha Tiger but shares Raazi’s emphasis on espionage and sacrifice.
The Real-Life Inspiration: 2012 Attacks on Israeli Diplomats 📰
The film draws from the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats in India, Georgia, and Thailand. On February 13, 2012, a car bomb exploded near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi, injuring a diplomat’s wife and others. Similar attacks occurred in Tbilisi, Georgia, and Bangkok, Thailand, targeting Israeli officials. Israel accused Iran of orchestrating the attacks as retaliation for the killing of Iranian nuclear scientists, which Iran blamed on Israel. The film uses this backdrop to create a fictional story, but the real events add authenticity to the narrative.
Streaming Details: Where to Watch Tehran 📺
Tehran is available on two major platforms:
- ZEE5: Premiered on August 14, 2025. Available in Hindi with English and Hindi subtitles.
- Netflix: Began streaming on August 27, 2025.
This dual-platform release is unusual for Indian films and reflects the movie’s broad appeal. You can watch it from the comfort of your home, whether you’re in India or abroad.
Music and Soundtrack: Setting the Mood 🎶
The soundtrack of Tehran is understated but effective. Ketan Sodha’s background score builds tension without overpowering the scenes. The songs, composed by Tanishk Bagchi and Dhruv Ghanekar, are minimal and blend seamlessly into the narrative. Unlike typical Bollywood films, Tehran avoids lengthy musical numbers, keeping the focus on the story.
Challenges and Controversies ⚖️
The film faced challenges before its release. Initially planned for a theatrical release, Tehran was delayed since 2023 due to its sensitive subject matter. Theaters were wary of screening a film involving Iran and Israel, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions. This led to the decision to release it on OTT platforms. John Abraham noted that while ZEE5 was gracious in picking up the film, the lack of a theatrical release was disappointing for the team.
Additionally, some viewers pointed out the geographical error regarding Georgia, which slightly marred the film’s credibility. Despite these issues, Tehran has been praised for its bold storytelling.
Why You Should Watch Tehran 👍
If you enjoy spy thrillers with a touch of realism, Tehran is for you. Here are some reasons to watch it:
- Gripping Story: The plot keeps you hooked with its twists and turns.
- Strong Performances: The cast delivers authentic and emotional performances.
- Relevant Themes: The film tackles real-world issues like geopolitics and betrayal.
- Global Appeal: Its international setting makes it relatable to a wide audience.
However, if you prefer fast-paced action or dislike complex narratives, you might find Tehran a bit slow.
10 FAQs About Tehran Movie ❓
- What is the Tehran movie about?
Tehran is a spy thriller about a Delhi Special Cell officer, Rajeev Kumar, who investigates a 2012 bombing and gets caught in a web of international espionage involving India, Iran, and Israel. - When was Tehran released?
The film premiered on ZEE5 on August 14, 2025, and began streaming on Netflix on August 27, 2025. - Who stars in Tehran?
The main cast includes John Abraham as ACP Rajeev Kumar, Neeru Bajwa as Sheilaja, and Manushi Chhillar as SI Divya Rana. - Is Tehran based on a true story?
Yes, it’s inspired by the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats in India, Georgia, and Thailand. - Where can I watch Tehran?
You can stream it on ZEE5 or Netflix. - What is the runtime of Tehran?
The movie runs for 116 minutes (1 hour 55 minutes). - Who directed Tehran?
Arun Gopalan directed the film in his debut. - Why was Tehran not released in theaters?ទ
Theaters were hesitant due to the sensitive Iran-Israel theme, so it was released on OTT platforms. - What is the rating of Tehran?
It has an IMDb rating of 6.2/10 and critic ratings around 3-3.5/5. - Is Tehran suitable for all audiences?
The film is rated R for violence and mature themes, so it’s best for adults.
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Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Thriller Fans 🎉
Tehran is a bold and gripping addition to the spy thriller genre. Its real-world inspiration, strong performances, and layered themes make it stand out. While it may feel dense at times, the film rewards viewers who pay attention to its intricate plot. John Abraham’s intense performance, combined with Arun Gopalan’s restrained direction, creates a compelling experience. Available on ZEE5 and Netflix, Tehran is easily accessible for anyone looking for a thought-provoking thriller. Whether you’re into geopolitics or just love a good spy story, this movie is worth your time.
Disclaimer ⚠️
The information in this blog post is based on publicly available sources and reviews as of September 7, 2025. Opinions and ratings may vary, and some details may change over time. Always check the latest reviews and platform availability before watching. This post is for informational purposes and does not guarantee the accuracy of external sources.
Contents
- 1 Tehran Movie: A Gripping Spy Thriller That Explores Geopolitics and Personal Struggles
- 2 Plot Summary: A Tale of Revenge and Betrayal 🕵️♂️
- 3 Cast and Characters: Bringing the Story to Life 🌟
- 4 Themes and Messages: Duty vs. Conscience 🤔
- 5 Direction and Cinematography: Crafting a Tense Atmosphere 🎬
- 6 Reception and Reviews: What Critics Are Saying 📰
- 7 Why Tehran Stands Out 🌟
- 8 Comparison with Other Spy Thrillers 🔍
- 9 The Real-Life Inspiration: 2012 Attacks on Israeli Diplomats 📰
- 10 Streaming Details: Where to Watch Tehran 📺
- 11 Music and Soundtrack: Setting the Mood 🎶
- 12 Challenges and Controversies ⚖️
- 13 Why You Should Watch Tehran 👍
- 14 10 FAQs About Tehran Movie ❓
- 15 People Also ask
- 16 Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Thriller Fans 🎉
- 17 Disclaimer ⚠️