The Diplomat Review: John Abraham and Sadia Khateeb's Thriller Inspired by True Events Lacks Flawlessness
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The Diplomat
Cast: John Abraham, Sadia Khateeb
Director: Shivam Nair
Rating: ★★★.5
From the outset, there is an element of The Diplomat that prevents me from granting it a four-star rating. It fulfills all the criteria for a solid thriller: suspenseful moments, a dynamic soundtrack, and an engaging storyline. However, it falls short of being a flawless viewing experience.
Directed by Shivam Nair, known for Naam Shabana, and featuring John Abraham and Sadia Khateeb in the lead roles, this film is inspired by the true story of Indian national Uzma Ahmad. In 2017, she was repatriated to India after reportedly being deceived by a Pakistani man. She disclosed that she was coerced into marriage at gunpoint and subsequently faced abuse during her visit to his country. Naturally, the narrative has been significantly dramatized for cinematic appeal.
What works in The Diplomat
Let us begin by discussing the positive aspects. If you anticipate John engaging in physical confrontations with adversaries (his well-defined muscles seem on the verge of bursting through his suit), you may find yourself disappointed. In this installment, he does not even swat a fly. Portraying the real-life diplomat JP Singh, he adopts a notably restrained approach. It would have been preferable if he had conveyed more emotion through his facial expressions. Has he become overly reliant on his hands to communicate?
The film opens with Uzma (Sadia) seeking assistance from the Indian Embassy in Pakistan, immediately immersing the audience in a high-stakes scenario. As the narrative unfolds, the tension escalates, which is a positive aspect. However, the intermission feels misplaced, as it does not provide a significant climax to anticipate.
Overall, the film is impactful and successfully avoids the common pitfall of a sluggish second half, which often plagues many films after intermission. The Diplomat is crafted like a thrilling game, where the protagonist must navigate a series of challenges, including car chases and intense encounters. The resolution of Uzma's journey as she crosses the India-Pakistan border to return home is ultimately satisfying.
What needed work
Now, let us address the less favorable aspects. Why do filmmakers feel compelled to provide their protagonists with traumatic backstories? In this instance, John’s character is perpetually haunted by a distressing event from his past, yet this does not enhance the narrative. Instead, it complicates a storyline that was already satisfactory on its own. Additionally, the inclusion of John's family serves as an unnecessary burden that detracts from the film's pacing.
Furthermore, while the film does not overtly promote nationalism, it does engage in neighborly criticism. The final scene features a self-satisfied John making a disparaging remark about Pakistan. Indian characters frequently interject with their own lines, such as Tiwari, played by Sharib Hashmi, who states during the climax, "This country has instilled so much fear that fear has vanished." I refrain from commenting on the political context surrounding this, but it is important to note that this is not intended to be a flag-waving patriotic film. Thus, the effort to inject mass appeal through such one-liners raises questions about the creators' true intentions.
Among the cast, Sadia delivers a standout performance in a substantial role, effectively conveying Uzma's pain and fear. Revathy, portraying the late former Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, has limited screen time but leaves a significant impression. Sharib has a minimal role, while Jagjeet Sandhu convincingly plays the abusive Tahir. Kumud Mishra, as advocate NM Sayyed, is consistently enjoyable to watch.
The film features no musical score.
In summary, The Diplomat had the potential to be an exceptional thriller, possessing all the necessary elements. However, its execution prevents it from achieving greatness. I would rate it 3.5 stars for its effort.
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