Is ‘The Diplomat’ India’s Most Thrilling Political Drama Yet? John Abraham Leads a Gripping Battle for Justice
Age Rating & Language
Age Rating: PG-13
Language: Hindi (with English subtitles)
When was the last time a political thriller truly gripped you? ‘The Diplomat’ isn’t just another rescue mission—it’s a story of courage, tension, and survival. Directed by Shivam Nair, this John Abraham-starrer is inspired by real-life events and brings a sharp, no-nonsense approach to storytelling. But does it deliver the gut-punching impact we expect? Let’s find out.
Plot Overview: A Battle for Freedom Across Borders
The story follows Uzma Ahmed (Sadia Khateeb), an Indian woman deceived into marrying a Pakistani man, Tariq (Jagjeet Sandhu). Trapped in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, she seizes an opportunity to escape when she visits the Indian Embassy under false pretenses. Once inside, she refuses to leave, setting off a tense diplomatic standoff.
Enter JP Singh (John Abraham), the Deputy High Commissioner of India in Pakistan. Tasked with getting Uzma back home safely, he must navigate an international crisis filled with bureaucratic roadblocks, political tension, and a dangerous antagonist. The film keeps you on edge as Uzma’s journey to freedom unfolds, leading to an emotional and action-packed climax.
Performances That Elevate the Narrative
John Abraham as JP Singh
This is not your usual action-hero John. Instead, he delivers a restrained yet powerful performance, portraying JP Singh as a determined diplomat who fights with intellect rather than fists. His commanding screen presence ensures the audience remains invested in every decision he makes.
Sadia Khateeb as Uzma Ahmed
Khateeb shines in her role, transitioning from a helpless victim to a resilient survivor. Her raw emotions make you feel every ounce of her struggle.
Jagjeet Sandhu as Tariq
A menacing antagonist, Sandhu’s portrayal of Uzma’s deceitful husband adds layers of tension to the narrative.
Revathy as Sushma Swaraj
Even in a brief role, Revathy leaves an impact as the late External Affairs Minister, showcasing both authority and empathy.
Cinematography & Direction: Subtle Yet Impactful
Director Shivam Nair masterfully maintains an understated tone, avoiding over-the-top patriotism. The cinematography effectively captures the stark contrast between the tense interiors of the embassy and the vast landscapes of Pakistan. One particular scene, where Tariq assaults Uzma, is shot with remarkable restraint—the camera stays on her face, letting her expressions tell the story.
What Works:
✅ Taut, gripping screenplay that keeps you hooked.
✅ John Abraham’s best performance in years—subtle yet commanding.
✅ Strong supporting cast, especially Sadia Khateeb.
✅ Realistic portrayal of diplomacy and international politics.
✅ No unnecessary songs, keeping the tension intact.
What Could Have Been Better:
❌ Some moments feel overly dramatized.
❌ Limited backstory for Uzma—her ordeal could have been explored more deeply.
Final Verdict: 3.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰
‘The Diplomat’ proves that a patriotic film doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. It’s an intense, well-crafted drama that keeps you engaged from start to finish. If you’re a fan of political thrillers, this one’s a must-watch!
Would you watch ‘The Diplomat’ or skip it? Let us know in the comments!