The Diplomat Movie Review

Star Cast: John Abraham, Sadia Khateeb, Vidhatri Bandi, Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, Revathy
Director: Shivam Nair
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Script Analysis:

Writer Ritesh Shah crafts one of his most fearless and grounded screenplays to date. Based on true events, the script avoids unnecessary drama and instead focuses on raw realism. Some minor fictionalizations exist, but the majority of the events — from courtroom invasions to diplomatic hurdles — feel brutally authentic.

This is not just a film; it’s a mirror to real-life horrors. Uzma’s ordeal is both heartbreaking and horrifying, and Shah doesn’t shy away from exposing the inhumanity she faced. The film also subtly critiques systemic legal and political breakdowns, particularly across the border.

From J.P. Singh’s diligence to Seerat’s fierce commitment, the narrative is unflinchingly sharp. Dialogues are searing, and the emotional weight is heavy, yet never exploitative.

Star Performance:

Sadia Khateeb, who we last saw playing one of Akshay Kumar’s sisters in Raksha Bandhan, shares a deeply moving account of the real person (who we catch a glimpse of at the end) who endured these humiliations. Her expressive eyes convey a powerful story of her pain. John Abraham nails the role of the determined J.P. Singh, who also juggles family life with a curious son. Jagjeet Sandhu shines as Tahir, and Muzammil Bhawani is equally impressive as Bashir.

However, I felt that Sharib Hashmi’s talent was underutilized. Revathy delivers a fantastic performance in the crucial role of Sushma Swaraj, while Vidhatri Bandi truly steals the spotlight as Seerat. Kumud Mishra is a joy to watch in his brief role, and Farheen Prabhakar makes a memorable appearance as his wife, despite her limited screen time. Ashwath Bhatt effectively portrays the sly and ruthless Mallik from the ISI.

Direction & Music:

Director Shivam Nair, known for Special Ops, handles the film with surgical precision. He avoids sensationalism, keeping the focus tight on the emotional and political stakes.

Nair creates a tense, high-stakes atmosphere without resorting to gimmicks. The background score is subtle and evocative, enhancing the film’s real-life tone rather than overpowering it.

The Last Word:

The Diplomat is a gripping, disturbing, and necessary watch. It sheds light on a real-life incident that exposes the emotional and legal turmoil women can face and the quiet strength of those who fight for justice.

Verdict: The Diplomat is a bold, unflinching account of diplomatic grit and human resilience. Watch it for its sincerity, performances, and the courage to speak the truth.