John Abraham does his best to lend some frisson to his role, but he is weighed down by a ridiculously fanciful screenplay…

With American satellites keeping a constant eye on Pokhran, India’s Nuclear site for years (India had conducted the first ‘peaceful’ nuclear explosion in 1974), there was no way they world was going to allow India to join the nuclear nations. So a civil services officer created a team and helped conduct not one, but three underground nuclear explosions successfully, one of the most successful covert operations in the world. The idea is great, but it takes too long to build the story.

John Abraham despite all his limitations as an actor is extremely earnest not only in his performance but also in his intention to tell the Pokharan tale. His most honest moment comes towards the end when he breaks down in tears. Boman Irani is a delight to watch. He gives a controlled and classy performance as the PM’s secretary.

Despite resorting to some very obvious tricks, Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran remains noble in its intention of telling a historic tale that made every Indian proud. It’s a good one time watch.

All said and done, some movies serve more than just entertainment and Parmanu provides an experience that will linger in your soul for a long time post you leave the cinema hall. Don’t watch this for anyone, watch it for your country.

Overall, the film is worth a watch for the unsung heroes of the tale.

John Abraham Starrer is Too Bollywood to be a “True Events” Story…The good part about the movie is that just like the recently released Raazi, Parmanu too doesn’t fall into the usual trappings of bashing Pakistan on screen just to make a few extra bucks at the box office.

What ‘Parmanu’ lacks in detail and authenticity, it makes up with emotions and a sense of national pride. The narrative isn’t explosive but it does have the dramatic moments to keep the viewer engaged. Thrills, suspense, drama, a little bit of humour, as well as a solid comment on India’s soldiers – this movie, largely has all the tricks to please even a discerning audience.

You will get the money shot of John Abraham and co. walking in slo-mo to swelling background music, enveloped in a comic book feel. You will not get crucial nuance and detail, essential requirements for a film to be to taken seriously.