DIRECTED BY: Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar
WRITTEN BY: Sanchit Gupta and Pritadarshee Srivastava
PRODUCED BY: Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar
CAST: Emraan Hashmi, Sai Tamhankar, Zoya Hussain, Mukesh Tiwari, Deepak Parmesh, Abhay Dheeraj Singh and more
RATING: 4.5/5
Tejal Sinha
Plot:
Ground Zero, directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar, is a high-octane action-thriller inspired by the real-life events surrounding BSF officer Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey (played by Emraan Hashmi). The film takes place in Srinagar in 2001, a turbulent time when a terror gang led by Jaish-e-Mohammed chief, Ghazi Baba, is wreaking havoc across the region. Their methodical killings, including the death of a teenager who was an informer, push the protagonist, Narendra, into a corner where he must decide whether to remain in Kashmir or move to Indore. His journey involves unraveling the terror network while struggling with personal guilt and the weight of his responsibilities. The screenplay follows Narendra’s investigation into the terror attacks that have claimed the lives of over 70 jawans, leading to a gripping cat-and-mouse chase between the BSF officer and Ghazi’s gang. The film’s edge lies in its portrayal of the mental and emotional toll that comes with serving on the front lines of a battle that never ceases.
Highlights:
The film shines in several areas, particularly with its raw and visceral depiction of the ongoing conflict in Kashmir. The action sequences are intense and impactful, offering an authentic look into the reality of military life during insurgency. The storyline, which touches on themes of sacrifice, guilt, and patriotism, ensures that the stakes feel personal and human.
The narrative’s pacing is spot-on, capturing both the urgency of the military operation and the psychological unraveling of its lead character. The inclusion of emotional moments, like the tragic death of Hussain, adds depth to the characters and gives a poignant touch to the high-tension scenes.
The film also explores the larger ramifications of counter-terrorism and military decisions in a sensitive yet gripping manner, making the audience feel the constant danger and moral dilemmas faced by those in uniform.
Drawbacks:
While the film does a lot right, there are moments where the pacing slows down, especially when the narrative dives into the internal struggles of the protagonist. Some viewers may feel that certain emotional beats could have been fleshed out more, giving more screen time to secondary characters, which would have enhanced the overall depth of the story.
Additionally, while the film stays grounded in its storytelling, there are moments where the dialogue becomes heavy-handed in its messaging, which could have been toned down for greater impact.
Performances:
Emraan Hashmi’s portrayal of Narendra is nothing short of compelling. Known for his versatility, Hashmi brings a grounded performance, blending the strength and vulnerability of a man grappling with both personal guilt and his duty to his country. His nuanced approach to the character ensures that the audience can connect with his emotional journey as much as with the action-packed sequences.
Supporting performances from Abhay Dheeraj Singh, Lalit Prabhakar, and Deepak Parmesh add great value to the film, as they portray Narendra’s colleagues who each bring something essential to the table in the fight against the terror network. Sai Tamhankar and Zoya Hussain also stand out in their brief but impactful roles, showcasing a fierce determination that complements the lead performances.
Technical Aspects:
Visually, Ground Zero maintains a raw and gritty aesthetic that complements its intense storyline. The cinematography captures the bleak landscapes of Kashmir and the tense atmosphere of military operations effectively. The action choreography is well-executed, delivering high-impact moments without feeling over-the-top or exaggerated. The sound design and background score are powerful, heightening the emotional stakes of the film and underscoring the urgency of the narrative.
Director Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar excels in creating a tight, focused film that doesn’t deviate into unnecessary subplots or distractions. His direction ensures that the film maintains its momentum, providing an engaging viewing experience from start to finish.
Verdict:
Ground Zero is a solid action-thriller that balances gripping military operations with emotional depth, providing a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of unsung heroes like BSF officer Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey. With strong performances, especially by Emraan Hashmi, and a well-crafted narrative, the film makes for a compelling watch for fans of action-packed dramas. Its raw portrayal of conflict, both external and internal, elevates it beyond a typical thriller and places it in the realm of meaningful storytelling. At a time when the entire country is reeling from the recent Pahalgam attack, this movie serves as a powerful reminder of the relentless dedication and sacrifices made by army personnel who tirelessly work to protect the nation from such threats.
