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Tehran

14 August 2025HindiorigEnglish1h 56m
6.2
from 6 critic reviews

What critics are saying

Tehran receives a broadly positive but mixed reception, with most critics appreciating its grounded, realistic approach to geopolitical storytelling rooted in actual Iran-Israel tensions.

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Arun Gopalan DirectorRitesh Shah WriterAshish Prakash Verma WriterBindni Karia WriterTanishk Bagchi MusicEvgeny Gubrenko CinematographyAndre Menezes Cinematography

On 13th February 2012, a magnetic bomb exploded, destroying an Israeli embassy vehicle in Delhi. ACP Rajeev Kumar, leading the investigation, suspects more than what meets the eye. Amid political pressure and suspicions of an Iranian connection, he embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth, facing formidable adversaries.

Critic Consensus

Tehran receives a broadly positive but mixed reception, with most critics appreciating its grounded, realistic approach to geopolitical storytelling rooted in actual Iran-Israel tensions. John Abraham's performance is frequently singled out, with one reviewer calling it his career best, and the film's restrained, substance-driven thriller craft is praised over spectacle. The most consistent criticism points to a narrative that grows confused and choppy as it attempts to untangle the connections between its various conspirators. Lower-scoring reviews suggest the film falls short of its potential, recommending it primarily to audiences already inclined toward realistic espionage dramas.

6 rated reviews · 4 positive · 2 mixed

Praised: John Abraham's grounded performanceCriticised: Confusing and choppy plot threads

AI-generated summary of 6 critic reviews · may contain errors

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Critic Reviews (6)

Updated
Shubhra GuptaTop Critic· Indian Express
5.0
What Abraham, whose impassivity helps his character feel as real as it can when done with reel-drama, manages to pull off here is noteworthy. The plot, in trying to uncover the connections between the conspirators in Iran and Israel, does get confused and choppy in places.
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Tushar Joshi· India Today
8.0
...a geopolitical thriller set against Iran-Israel tensions. The film highlights the human cost of conflict and offers sharp performances and gripping storytelling
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Trisha Gaur· KoiMoi
8.0
Tehran delivers a thriller that takes its inspiration from a compelling story rather than random gunshots and flying cars, with a raw and real portrayal as the film moves from India and travels to Tehran. In an era of spy thrillers that prioritize style over substance, and jingoism over crisp content, John Abraham's film is an intelligent commentary on the geopolitical air and diplomatic ties between India, Iran and Israel.
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Ronak Kotecha· Times Of India
7.0
Tehran is a worthwhile watch for fans of geopolitical thrillers who are willing to pay attention and follow a layered narrative. It doesn’t always clarify every thread, but its realism, strong performances and relentless pace make it an engaging spy drama.
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Lachmi Deb Roy· Firstpost
6.0
'Tehran' is John Abraham’s career best performance after 'Diplomat'. This movie gives a new high to patriotic films without displaying chest-thumping patriotism. Inspired by the 2012 bombing near the Israeli embassy in Delhi, the film follows ACP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham) on a mission to avenge an innocent life lost in the attack.
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Bollywood Hungama News Network· Bollywood Hungama
5.0
...is a decent espionage drama that could have been more. The film scores more in the technical arena. It should find its audience amongst those who prefer realistic action dramas instead of the masala fare.
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Cast & Crew

Cast

Details

Release Date
14 August 2025
Runtime
1h 56m
Languages
Hindiorig, English

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