Bollywood has long been home to larger-than-life espionage films, where secret agents are glorified as invincible heroes. However, Berlin, written and directed by Atul Sabharwal, breaks away from this mold, offering a more understated and thought-provoking take on the spy genre. Set in 1993, the film presents a refreshing counterpoint to the high-octane action spectacles like Tiger and Pathaan that dominate Bollywood’s spy universe.
Berlin’s Unique Take on Espionage Thrillers
Unlike the typical Bollywood spy film, Berlin is a subdued exploration of espionage, stripping away the heroism and theatrics often associated with secret agents. The movie focuses on ordinary men caught in the complex web of intelligence agencies, where manipulation, treachery, and survival are at the forefront. The film features minimal star power and avoids over-the-top action sequences, instead delving into the psychological aspects of espionage.
Exploring the Depths of Secret Agents in Post-Cold War India
Set against the backdrop of a state visit by a Russian president in post-Cold War India, the film revolves around Ashok Kumar (Ishwak Singh), a deaf-mute man accused of treason, and Pushkin Verma (Aparshakti Khurana), a sign language interpreter brought in to interrogate him. As the narrative unfolds, Ashok’s innocence is questioned, and Pushkin finds himself entangled in a dangerous game of espionage that threatens his life.
The film is devoid of flashy action or patriotic rhetoric, instead focusing on the personal struggles of its characters. The intelligence officers, led by Satpal Dhingra (Rahul Bose), are far from invincible heroes. They are flawed individuals, navigating the murky waters of espionage while protecting their interests.
Strong Performances, Subtle Storytelling in Atul Sabharwal’s Berlin
The strength of Berlin lies in its performances, particularly by Ishwak Singh and Aparshakti Khurana. Singh’s portrayal of Ashok Kumar is both expressive and enigmatic, keeping the audience guessing about his true intentions. Khurana, on the other hand, delivers a nuanced performance as the unsuspecting interpreter, bringing a mix of bafflement and determination to his role.
Rahul Bose shines as the cunning and calculating intelligence officer, adding layers to his character without going overboard. The film also benefits from its minimal use of background music, focusing on the silences and hand gestures during the interrogation scenes, creating a tense atmosphere.
Berlin’s Subtle but Impactful Narrative
While Berlin may not appeal to fans of fast-paced, action-heavy spy films, it offers a sobering portrayal of espionage. The film takes a candid approach, showcasing secret agents as vulnerable, flawed human beings rather than the omnipotent figures often seen in Bollywood. The film’s dialogue, such as the line “Hum bhi guesswork hi karte hain” (We also guess), highlights the imperfections of intelligence work.
Though Berlin has its creative missteps, including some anachronistic period details, its bold attempt to subvert the spy genre deserves recognition. For those willing to embrace its muted tone, Berlin provides a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience, standing out as a refreshing alternative in Bollywood’s espionage landscape.