John Abraham is reportedly "disheartened" by the decision to release his film "Tehran" directly on OTT. The geopolitical spy thriller, inspired by real-life events, will be available on ZEE5 starting August 14, 2025. This decision to skip a theatrical release seems to have affected Abraham deeply, especially given his personal investment in the project.
"Tehran" is based on the 2012 bomb blast near the Israeli Embassy in Delhi and explores the complex dynamics between Israel and Iran. Abraham plays ACP Rajeev Kumar, who gets drawn into a covert operation spanning continents, ideologies, and alliances. The film also stars Manushi Chhillar and Neeru Bajwa. The trailer suggests a narrative where Kumar finds himself hunted by Iran and abandoned by both India and Israel, raising questions about his true allegiance.
Abraham described his role as ACP Rajeev Kumar as one of the most intense and layered of his career. He portrays Kumar as a man torn between duty and conscience, navigating a morally grey landscape. He also expressed pride in being part of a project that dares to explore complex moral landscapes.
Despite the film's potential, there hasn't been a significant promotional push, which is common for OTT releases. The film's performance will likely depend on audience interest and online buzz. While the OTT release provides visibility, some fans are disappointed that Abraham won't be showcasing his talent on the big screen. Some believe "Tehran" might have been a better theatrical release than his previous film "Vedaa".
The decision to release "Tehran" on OTT comes after the underwhelming box office performance of Abraham's previous films, "The Diplomat" and "Vedaa". This may have led the production house, Maddock Films, to lose confidence in taking theatrical risks. Some perceive this move as a betrayal, not only to Abraham but also to the film itself, which they believe had the potential to perform well in theaters.
Despite this setback, Abraham acknowledged the global platform that ZEE5 provides for the film, calling "Tehran" India's first international film.
Directed by Arun Gopalan, "Tehran" delves into shifting loyalties, blurred identities, and the human cost within the shadows of global politics. Gopalan praised the cast for their genuine performances, highlighting the inner struggles reflected by each character.
While some reviews of the trailer suggest a potentially thrilling and thought-provoking story, they also express concerns about whether the film will deliver on its promises. One reviewer noted that despite relying heavily on dialogue, the trailer lacked intrigue and memorable lines.
Fans have expressed excitement about seeing Abraham in an action-packed role, with some questioning why the film wasn't released in theaters.
