In a recent interview with The Hindu, acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap lauded John Abraham‘s performance in the upcoming political thriller, The Diplomat. Set to release on March 14, 2025, the film is based on the true story of Uzma Ahmed’s life. Kashyap, who recently announced his departure from the Bollywood industry due to perceived toxicity, expressed admiration for Abraham’s portrayal, describing it as an outstanding comeback. His remarks came after personally contacting the actor to convey his praise for the role.
Anurag Kashyap, known for his candid opinions, emphasized that John Abraham’s role in The Diplomat deviates from his usual action-packed performances, showing his character-driven acting prowess. Kashyap highlighted the evolution in Abraham’s craft, saying, “After a long time, I am seeing you being a very good actor.” This sentiment underscores the impression that Abraham’s performance was a refreshing deviation from blockbuster heroism, focusing instead on depth and nuance.
The Diplomat, directed by Shivam Nair, has captured the interest of audiences and critics alike. Anurag Kashyap also commended Nair’s direction, calling the film engaging. The movie’s cast includes notable names such as Sadia Khateeb, Kumud Mishra, Ram Gopal Bajaj, Benjamin Gilani, and Sharib Hashmi, further raising expectations for its release.
Kashyap’s connection with Abraham stems from their collaboration on the 2007 film No Smoking. Recalling their past work, Kashyap shared how he urged Abraham to consider creating a sequel, albeit with caution to ensure the uniqueness of the subject matter. This underscores the challenge in capturing public imagination with sequels, especially for films that have achieved cult status over time.
Despite the praise for The Diplomat, Anurag Kashyap expressed concerns about the current climate in Bollywood. In another interview, he cited the industry’s increasing negativity and competitive pressures, leading him to step back. He remarked, “It’s not the same anymore. There’s too much negativity, too much politics.” This sentiment reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the industry’s focus on high-grossing projects at the expense of creative authenticity.
As The Diplomat gears up for release, John Abraham’s performance is anticipated to be a standout. The film not only highlights his acting skills but possibly signifies a pivotal moment in his career. Whether this marks a new direction in Bollywood or sparks further industry introspection, remains to be seen. As audiences and critics eagerly await its debut, the film may indeed signal a shift in both Abraham’s career and Bollywood narratives.
