ZEE5’s Tehran, led by John Abraham, is now available to stream. This Independence Day week was packed with plenty of releases, but despite the odds, Tehran rises and emerges as a compelling geopolitical thriller, with its leading man delivering one of the best performances of his career.
The first reactions to Tehran are mostly positive, with special praise directed at Abraham’s performance. The actor has been applauded for his restrained, intense, and nuanced portrayal of DCP Rajeev Kumar, a character defined more by quiet determination and emotional depth than by over-the-top action heroics.
Moreover, the film is commended for its strong writing and mature approach to a sensitive subject. Instead of relying on jingoism as its main weapon, it focuses on the complexities of international diplomacy and the human cost of conflict.
Tehran’s realistic action sequences have also been met with praise. Director Arun Gopalan’s debut is widely appreciated for its tight pacing, slick execution, and ability to build a tense, brooding atmosphere. The cinematography and background score are also highlighted as key strengths.
The rest of the cast shines as well, particularly Neeru Bajwa as a diplomat and Hadi Khanjanpour as the antagonist. However, some critics have pointed out that a few supporting roles feel underdeveloped due to rushed editing, preventing them from making a lasting impact.
Overall, Tehran has been declared a strong watch for fans of smart, realistic spy thrillers. It is praised for breaking the typical Bollywood spy film mould by focusing on substance over style and delivering a powerful, content-driven narrative. While some feel it could have offered more emotional impact or a simpler plot, its strengths in writing, direction, and acting, particularly from John Abraham, make it a compelling watch.
Here are some of the early reviews for Tehran. Watch it now on ZEE5.
Tehran movie review: #JohnAbraham stars in 'Tehran', a geopolitical thriller set against Iran-Israel tensions. The film highlights the human cost of conflict and offers sharp performances and gripping storytelling, says our review.
Read more: https://t.co/1CicCk8NV6… pic.twitter.com/H7s9Bv2TzX
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) August 14, 2025
Tehran is tense, gripping & brilliantly acted
John Abraham delivers one of his best performances yet https://t.co/E4csjZwwoN #Tehran #JohnAbraham #bollywoodactresshot— Vanshika (@parekh_van227) August 14, 2025
Movie: Tehran
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
Review: RIVETINGJohn Abraham, Manushi Chhillar shine in this gripping spy saga ✨#Tehran #TehranOnZee5 #TehranReview #JohnAbraham #ManushiChhillar@TheJohnAbraham @ManushiChhillar @Zee5India
Director #ArunGopalan nails the atmosphere — tense,… pic.twitter.com/R7fZx7AxnU
— Praneet Samaiya (@praneetsamaiya) August 14, 2025
#FPEntertainment: 'Tehran' Movie Review: John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar’s spy thriller is intense, engaging & sharp@TheJohnAbraham @neerubajwa @ManushiChhillar@_iamnaaz_ @dinkersharmaa @MaddockFilms @bakemycakefilms @ZEE5India
by @lachmi0809 https://t.co/17RdSHfXEg
— Firstpost (@firstpost) August 14, 2025
John Abraham delivers a powerhouse performance in #Tehran—speaking Farsi, acing action & bringing depth to espionage. A taut, authentic thriller that rewards your attention & your heart. Now streaming on #Zee5https://t.co/g4ZRLDnNMk
— India Forums (@indiaforums) August 13, 2025
YRF should learn from #Tehran how to make a real spy thriller. Period. #War2 #TehranOnZEE5 #JohnAbraham pic.twitter.com/tMk5N2EpMl
— Vishveshver Singh Sai (@Vishveshver45) August 14, 2025
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