In a recent turn of events, filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, known for his candid opinions, expressed high praise for John Abraham‘s upcoming role in the political thriller, The Diplomat. Though he has decided to step back from the Bollywood industry due to its perceived toxicity, Kashyap made it a point to commend John’s performance, an adaptation of the real-life story of Uzma Ahmed, the film capturing his attention and respect.
During an interview with The Hindu, Kashyap revealed his admiration for the film and John’s portrayal. He conveyed to the 52-year-old actor, “After a long time I am seeing you being a very good actor,” emphasizing John’s dedication to character acting over typical action-heavy roles. The filmmaker also praised director Shivam Nair for crafting an engaging narrative within the film.
The history between Anurag Kashyap and John Abraham is not new; they previously collaborated on No Smoking in 2007. Reflecting on their past work, Kashyap noted his desire for a sequel, though the right subject matter remains essential. His remarks, quoted by Jagran, highlighted the challenge of meeting elevated expectations, particularly with a film that garners a cult following over time.
Kashyap further elaborated on his decision to distance himself from Bollywood, attributing this to the rampant negativity and political maneuvering within the industry. He lamented the overshadowing of artistic filmmaking by a focus on excessive profit margins, describing an atmosphere bereft of creativity. Kashyap remarked, “I want to stay away from film people. The industry has become too toxic. Everyone is chasing unrealistic targets, trying to make the next Rs 500 or Rs 800 crore film. The creative atmosphere is gone.”
Looking ahead, film enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the release of The Diplomat, directed by Shivam Nair and slated for a March 14, 2025 release. The film features a star-studded cast that includes John Abraham, Sadia Khateeb, Kumud Mishra, Ram Gopal Bajaj, Benjamin Gilani, and Sharib Hashmi. With the support of prominent filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap, John Abraham’s role in the film is poised for notable acclaim, showcasing his dynamic capabilities and enticing audiences towards this compelling cinematic experience. The anticipation surrounding The Diplomat underscores its potential impact, possibly setting the stage for a critical and commercial triumph.