The upcoming geopolitical thriller Tehran, starring John Abraham and Manushi Chhillar, has been creating buzz ever since it was first announced. Directed by Arun Gopalan and backed by Maddock Films, the
high-stakes drama is set against the backdrop of intensifying tensions between Israel and Iran. Premiering on Zee5 on August 14, the film delves deep into the dangerous world of international espionage—where one man’s loyalty could shift the balance between allegiance and betrayal.
In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha ahead of its release, John Abraham spoke candidly about the decision to opt for an OTT premiere over a theatrical run and also summed up the film in one powerful line.
When asked about the film’s digital-first release, John admitted it was not an easy decision. “Yes, to be honest, you do feel disheartened and disappointed that this film is not releasing theatrically. But at the same time, what we thought was the biggest advantage of this film—the Iran–Israel conflict—also turned out to be its Achilles’ heel. I don’t think this film would have seen the light of day in theaters, so I’m thankful to Zee5 for giving us a platform to put it out. It was a double-or-quits scenario: do we not release this film at all, or do we ensure it reaches somewhere? We decided to double down and release it on Zee5 globally,” he shared.
Summarising the essence of Tehran and why it’s a must-watch this Independence Day, John said, “Tehran makes for a perfect watch this Independence Day. It’s very important to put out a good film, and Tehran is exactly that—a meaningful story. It’s not your typical jingoistic narrative; it tackles terrorism and explores the idea that we, as Indians, are not a playground or a battleground for other countries to fight their wars. That’s what Tehran is about—an edge-of-the-seat political thriller, and one well worth experiencing this Independence Day.”
In the film, John steps into the role of ACP Rajiv Kumar, a man torn between his sense of duty and his conscience. Navigating a labyrinth of international espionage, Rajiv finds himself caught in the crossfire of the Iran–Israel geopolitical conflict. As shifting alliances and political manoeuvring cloud his path, his loyalty comes under severe scrutiny.
Manushi Chhillar takes on the role of SI Divya Rana—a determined, fearless, and principled officer committed to serving her nation. Her character’s grit and dedication make her a formidable ally and a symbol of resilience.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the film is Punjabi actress Neeru Bajwa, who portrays Sheilaja, a character defined by her emotional depth and complexity. Through her role, Tehran explores how global politics can intertwine with personal beliefs, adding nuance to the larger narrative.
With its potent blend of political tension, espionage drama, and human emotion, Tehran promises to be a gripping watch for the Independence Day weekend.
