FILM REVIEW SACHIN CHATTE
Film: The Diplomat
Cast: John Abraham, Sadia Khateeb, Jagjeet Sandhu
Directed by: Shivam Nair
Duration: 2 hours 27 minutes
Rating: * * * ½
The Diplomat offers a refreshing take on the adaptation of true stories in Hindi cinema. True narratives inherently possess dramatic elements, but the challenge lies in their effective translation to the screen. I am happy to note that Shivam Nair, who is not widely recognized as a prolific director in Hindi cinema—his last film being Naam Shabana in 2017—has successfully delivered a compelling product. This film is a tightly woven thriller that generates intrigue and maintains viewer engagement throughout its duration. Fortunately, it avoids the pitfalls of melodrama and the typical song-and-dance sequences that often plague many Bollywood films.
It is also refreshing to see John Abraham showcase his acting range through facial expressions rather than merely relying on flexing his muscles. Following his role in Vedaa last year, he once again portrays a character who rescues a woman in distress, this time taking on the lead role of J.P. Singh, the Deputy High Commissioner in Pakistan.
Ritesh Shah’s screenplay effectively adapts the real-life story of Uzma Ahmed, an Indian national who was forced to stay in Pakistan. The film begins with an extensive disclaimer before transitioning to a visually stunning region of Pakistan, where a woman in a burqa is escorted by two men. This woman, identified as Uzma (Sadia Khateeb), is accompanied by her husband, Tahir (Jagjeet Sandhu). Their journey leads them to the Indian embassy, where an unsettling atmosphere suggests that not everything is as it seems.
Seizing her first chance, Uzma alerts the Indian authorities, seeking protection from her husband, and successfully gains entry into the embassy. Initially, the Indian officials are wary of her intentions, but it soon becomes apparent that her husband has subjected her to torture and confinement. Although she is an Indian citizen, she was deceived into marriage by Tahir.
The film explores the diplomatic efforts and management of the situation by J.P. Singh. As indicated in the post-credits, Uzma was under refuge for 20 days before returning across the Wagah border, where she was greeted by Sushma Swaraj (Revathi), the then Foreign Minister, who provided her with support throughout her challenging experience.
Being a cinematic work, the film incorporates several dramatic subplots and supporting characters. Uzma is compelled to appear in court, which causes her considerable discomfort, because of her traumatic experiences. She is effectively assisted by her lawyer, Syed (Kumud Mishra). His portrayal as a compassionate individual highlights that not everyone in Pakistan is an evil person. Additionally, Indian officials at the embassy, portrayed by Sharib Hashmi and others, contribute to the narrative’s dynamism.
Given that the film is set entirely in Pakistan, it refrains from sensationalism and does not engage in overt nationalism. Yes, there is a dose of patriotism but it is well measured. While it critiques the ISI and the local system, it does so with a sense of dignity. The antagonists include Tahir, his group of thugs, and the ISI, yet the film addresses the ISI with diplomacy and tact rather than aggression or bravado.
On the downside, some flashback sequences could have been tighter; the film is most effective in the present timeline, particularly when John Abraham’s character is featured.
The actor delivers an outstanding performance as a multifaceted character -occasionally vulnerable but mostly confident, he successfully displays a range of emotions. Sadia Khateeb also handles her emotionally charged scenes commendably. The supporting cast, including Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, and Jagjeet Sandhu, fits well into their respective
roles.
Effectively, with some competent film making, The Diplomat ticks a lot of the right boxes including a few unexpected ones.
Can and Able
Film: Novocaine
Cast: Jack Quaid, Amber Midthunder, Ray Nicholson
Directed by: Dan Berk, Robert Olsen
Duration: 1 hr 49 mins
Rating: * * * ½
As an action comedy, Novocaine is like a superhero film but without the typical burdens associated with them, making it superior to many in that genre. In this narrative, Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid), also known as ‘Novocaine’, is not on a mission to save the world; rather, he aims to rescue his newfound love from the villains.
Directed by the duo of Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, the film adopts a straightforward approach. It recognizes its limitations, opting for a storyline that remains grounded, achieving success within those confines. The film features a significant amount of action; blending elements of both humour and gore, all intended to entertain.
When we first meet Nathan, he is an ordinary assistant bank manager grappling with an unusual condition. Similar to the Mard in Vasan Bala’s Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (2019), Nathan suffers from Congenital Insensitivity to Pain (CIP), meaning he cannot feel pain. For instance, he could be punched in the face without experiencing any discomfort, and the same applies to a hot cup of coffee spilling on his hands – that actually happens during a conversation with his colleague Sherry (Amber Midthunder), as he shares details about his unique situation while they develop a connection. He has never experienced the taste of pie and avoids solid foods for fear of accidentally biting his tongue. Additionally, he relies on an alarm to remind him to empty his bladder, as he might not realize when it is full. Up to this point, the film functions as a charming romantic comedy, but it is evident that a shift in tone is imminent.
Nathan is characterised as an empathic individual, a kind-hearted man who strives to assist those in distress, a challenging endeavour given his profession as a banker. As his romantic relationship begins to blossom, the narrative takes a dramatic turn when robbers storm the bank, taking Sherry hostage. This incident also casts a suspicion on Nathan himself.
Having discovered a transformative love, Nathan is determined to apprehend the robbers and rescue Sherry. This quest entails enduring significant physical hardship, which he willingly accepts, while also devising strategies to outsmart his adversaries. That includes a hand-to-hand confrontation in a kitchen and navigating various traps within the villains’ lair. Although he may not experience physical pain, the emotional turmoil stemming from Sherry’s abduction is palpable.
It is all rounded off nicely as Nathan realises he cannot face this challenge alone and receives assistance from an unexpected ally. Roscoe, a gaming companion he has never met in person, comes to Nathan’s aid during critical moments, providing both support and comic relief.
While the screenplay encounters a few minor issues, they are handled with skill, ensuring they do not detract from the overall experience. The tone remains light-hearted throughout, and Nathan, now embodying a new persona, never feels out of place as the ‘tough guy’.
Jack Quaid, who recently appeared in Companion in a vastly different role, effectively essays his character, complemented by Amber Midthunder’s performance. The film features a ‘twist’ reminiscent of Bollywood storytelling, and the climax may feel somewhat prolonged—first at the hideout, then in the ambulance, and finally at the seaport—by which point the audience has already witnessed a great deal of action. Nevertheless, despite these minor flaws, Novocaine remains an enjoyable
film.
