John Abraham's 'Tehran' finds wider audience, streaming on Netflix after initial ZEE5 release, marking unique OTT availability.
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John Abraham's film 'Tehran,' a geopolitical thriller inspired by the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats in Delhi, is now streaming on Netflix after initially premiering on ZEE5. This makes it a rare Hindi film to be available on two OTT platforms simultaneously. The film debuted on ZEE5 on August 14, 2025, coinciding with India's Independence Day, and became available on Netflix India on August 27, 2025.

Directed by Arun Gopalan and produced by Dinesh Vijan's Maddock Films, 'Tehran' stars John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, and Neeru Bajwa. The film follows ACP Rajeev Kumar, an Indian special officer, as he embarks on a covert mission in Iran after a deadly bomb blast in Delhi. The plot involves twists, turns, espionage, and political intrigue against the backdrop of tense relations between India, Iran, and Israel.

The move to stream 'Tehran' on both ZEE5 and Netflix is considered a strategic one, aiming to maximize viewership and reach a wider, global audience. Non-exclusive deals like this are still uncommon in Bollywood but are seen as beneficial for all parties involved. Streaming platforms can increase their content library at a reduced cost, while producers can expose their films to a broader demographic. Maddock Films has previously adopted this strategy with films like 'Mimi' (2021) and 'Dasvi' (2022).

'Tehran' was initially intended for a theatrical release, but the makers ultimately decided to go with an OTT release. According to insiders, the film had been ready for some time before the decision to release it on streaming platforms was made.

The film has received mixed reviews from critics. Tushar Joshi from India Today rated the film 4 out of 5 stars, praising its sensitive portrayal of ordinary people caught in the crossfire of war. Ronak Kotecha from The Times of India rated the film 3.5 stars out of 5, calling it a worthwhile watch for fans of geopolitical thrillers. However, Shubhra Gupta from The Indian Express rated the film 2.5 stars out of 5. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 8.1/10, with some appreciating Abraham's performance while others felt the story's pacing was slow.

Critics have generally praised the film's action sequences, cinematography, and production design. Some have noted that the film requires close attention due to its complex plot and numerous characters. John Abraham's performance has been described as gritty and intense, while Manushi Chhillar's role has been called a revelation.

With its release on Netflix, 'Tehran' is now poised to reach a global audience. The film's themes of espionage, betrayal, and survival in a politically charged environment may resonate with viewers interested in international affairs and spy thrillers.


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Hina Joshi is a promising journalist, bringing a fresh voice to the media landscape, fueled by her passion for sports. With a recent Mass Communication degree, Hina is particularly drawn to lifestyle, arts, and community-focused narratives. She's dedicated to thorough research and crafting engaging stories that highlight the diverse cultural tapestry, aiming to connect with readers through insightful and vibrant reporting. Her love for sports also inspires her pursuit of dynamic and compelling human interest pieces.
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