Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero: A New Chapter of Intensity and Patriotism

Before diving into his classic filmography, let’s take a quick look at Ground Zero, Emraan Hashmi’s upcoming film that’s already creating buzz. Directed by Tejas Vijay Deoskar, this action-drama sees Hashmi stepping into the boots of a Border Security Force (BSF) officer posted at the volatile Jammu and Kashmir border. The film explores the challenges faced by security personnel and the emotional toll it takes on their lives. It’s a gritty, patriotic drama that promises raw emotions, intense action, and a stirring narrative.

With Ground Zero set for release in mid-2025, here are 5 must-watch Emraan Hashmi films that highlight his growth as one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors.

1. Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010)

IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut, Prachi Desai
Director: Milan Luthria
Storyline: Set in the underworld of 1970s Mumbai, the film follows the rise of Shoaib Khan (Hashmi), a street-smart smuggler inspired by the powerful gangster Sultan Mirza (Ajay Devgn). It’s a stylish period crime drama with powerful dialogues and gripping performances.

Hashmi shines as the brash and ambitious Shoaib, delivering a career-defining performance. His portrayal of a gangster torn between loyalty and ambition is unforgettable.

2. Hamari Adhuri Kahani (2015)

IMDb Rating: 6.4/10
Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Vidya Balan, Rajkummar Rao
Director: Mohit Suri
Storyline: A poetic love story about unfulfilled emotions and societal constraints, this film follows the tragic romance between Vasudha and Aarav. Aarav (Hashmi), a successful businessman with a painful past, helps Vasudha rediscover herself.

This film showcased a more sensitive and emotional side of Emraan, far from his usual intense or romantic thriller roles.

3. Awarapan (2007)

IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Shriya Saran, Ashutosh Rana
Director: Mohit Suri
Storyline: A brooding gangster, Shivam (Hashmi), who works for a powerful don, finds himself in a moral dilemma when he’s asked to kill a girl for betrayal. A tale of redemption, pain, and love, Awarapan is one of Emraan’s most intense roles to date.

The film is noted for its haunting music and deeply philosophical undertones, and it gave Hashmi critical acclaim for his nuanced performance.

4. Jannat (2008)

IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Sonal Chauhan, Sameer Kochhar
Director: Kunal Deshmukh
Storyline: Arjun (Hashmi) is a small-time gambler who climbs the ladder in the world of match-fixing, but his greed comes at a cost. His love life and morality are put to the test in this fast-paced thriller.

Jannat was a major box office success and a crowd-pleaser. Emraan’s portrayal of a conflicted man trying to balance love and ambition is both charming and tragic.

5. Murder 2 (2011)

IMDb Rating: 6.1/10
Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Jacqueline Fernandez, Prashant Narayanan
Director: Mohit Suri
Storyline: In this chilling crime thriller, Emraan plays Arjun Bhagwat, a former cop hired to find missing girls. What follows is a dark chase into the psyche of a psychopathic killer.

With a gripping plot and intense screenplay, Murder 2 marked Emraan’s transition into darker, more serious roles. His portrayal of a morally ambiguous detective is thrilling and edgy.

Whether it’s the emotional depth of Hamari Adhuri Kahani, the gritty realism of Awarapan, or the high-stakes suspense of Murder 2, Emraan Hashmi has never shied away from challenging roles. With Ground Zero, he’s set to deliver yet another powerful performance that combines emotion, duty, and action.

Before you witness his transformation into a BSF officer, revisit these five films that have defined his cinematic journey — each one a testament to why Emraan Hashmi remains one of Bollywood’s most dynamic actors.