Gripping, intense, and emotionally compelling, this 2018 film, directed by Meghna Gulzar, stars Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. Set against the tense backdrop of 1971, during the Indo-Pakistani war, the film is based on true events, exploring the life of an Indian spy in Pakistan. Rooted in the spy thriller genre with a deep emotional undertone, it delves into patriotism, family loyalty, and the personal costs of espionage. It is adapted from Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, bringing forth a story as much about loyalty and courage as it is about moral and ethical dilemmas.
The story follows Sehmat, an innocent young woman from Kashmir, whose life takes a drastic turn when her father, a patriotic Indian, convinces her to marry into a Pakistani military family so she can gather intelligence. This personal sacrifice transforms Sehmat from an unassuming daughter into a spy, bound by duty to her country and yet torn by the bonds of family she builds in Pakistan. As she navigates her new life and uncovers secrets, the tension escalates, putting her and everyone around her in increasing danger. The film keeps viewers on edge with each revelation, but it’s the emotional layers that give depth to her internal struggles, making it more than just a story about espionage.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is Alia’s transformative performance as Sehmat. Known for her versatile talent, Alia brings a raw vulnerability combined with a steely resolve to her character, making Sehmat incredibly compelling. Her portrayal of a woman forced into a dangerous game with only her instincts and courage to rely on is one of the film’s most powerful draws. Moments where she silently communicates fear, strength, and guilt through subtle expressions are brilliantly done, allowing viewers to connect with her struggles on a personal level. Opposite her, Vicky’s restrained performance as her husband, Iqbal, adds a layer of poignancy. He conveys warmth and sincerity that complicates Sehmat’s mission, making their relationship a nuanced and tragic aspect of the story. Their chemistry, built on mutual respect and gentleness, is what makes the stakes feel so high, especially as Sehmat’s actions threaten to unravel everything.
The direction by Meghna Gulzar is both meticulous and evocative, creating an atmosphere that’s filled with suspense yet never straying from the emotional core of the story. Her storytelling emphasizes Sehmat’s personal sacrifice and the ethical complexities she faces. Meghna employs restraint in her storytelling, avoiding excessive dramatization, and instead lets the narrative unfold at a pace that feels organic and tense. This restrained direction allows moments of silence and Sehmat’s introspective glances to speak volumes, giving viewers time to process her internal conflicts. Meghna’s thoughtful approach to both the narrative and the characters elevates the film, making it feel personal rather than patriotic in a simplistic way.
The cinematography by Jay I. Patel is beautifully executed, capturing the aesthetic contrast between Sehmat’s idyllic life in India and the starker world of her new life in Pakistan. Wide shots of the vast Kashmir mountains, the detailed interiors of Pakistani homes, and the dimly lit corridors where Sehmat gathers intelligence are all captured with precision, underscoring the visual tension. The color palette, shifting from warm, familiar hues in her Indian home to cooler, muted tones as she embarks on her mission, reflects Sehmat’s psychological journey, and the cinematography contributes greatly to the somber, serious mood of the film. Patel’s work brings a visually layered storytelling technique that mirrors Sehmat’s emotional state.
The musical score by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy enhances the film’s suspenseful atmosphere without overwhelming it. The music is subtle, complementing rather than dictating the emotions in each scene. Songs like “Ae Watan” instill a sense of patriotism that feels personal and heartfelt, encapsulating Sehmat’s struggle as a young patriot in a foreign land. The haunting background score intensifies moments of danger, creating a gripping atmosphere that keeps the audience engaged, especially during scenes where Sehmat’s life is on the line. This restrained approach to music aligns well with Meghna’s direction, creating an immersive, realistic experience that avoids melodrama.
The costume design deserves mention for its attention to cultural detail and authenticity, reflecting the era’s aesthetics and the socio-political backdrop of both nations. Sehmat’s transition from traditional Indian clothing to Pakistani attire reflects her changing identity, blending into a culture that is both foreign and increasingly familiar. The costumes serve as a subtle reminder of her dual life, with modest and traditional choices that lend her character an air of innocence while masking her inner turmoil. Each outfit is chosen carefully to maintain historical accuracy, adding another layer of realism to the film.
The film’s editing is tight and purposeful, maintaining a steady narrative flow that builds suspense without losing focus on the emotional core. Editor Nitin Baid crafts scenes that transition smoothly, capturing both action and introspection in ways that feel cohesive and natural. In moments of high tension, the quick cuts and close-ups enhance the urgency, while more prolonged shots allow viewers to absorb the weight of Sehmat’s decisions. This effective editing heightens the emotional impact, making each scene feel essential to Sehmat’s journey and the overarching story.
This film is a powerful portrayal of sacrifice, courage, and the devastating personal cost of espionage. Alia’s brilliant performance, complemented by Meghna’s restrained direction, brings out the raw emotion behind a character who has often been reduced to a symbol of patriotism in lesser narratives. It isn’t merely a tale of a woman on a covert mission; it’s a story about the fragility of human relationships and the painful sacrifices that patriotism can demand. The film’s authenticity, careful direction, and respectful handling of a sensitive historical context set it apart as an extraordinary addition to the genre.
For viewers seeking a spy thriller that goes beyond conventional boundaries to explore the human aspect of espionage, this film is a must-watch. It combines the thrill of undercover missions with a deep, introspective look at the personal cost of duty and loyalty. The story, the acting, and the craft come together to create a cinematic experience that’s suspenseful, emotional, and unforgettable. It’s a movie that resonates, leaving a lasting impression and encouraging viewers to reflect on the complexities of patriotism and personal duty. Highly recommended for its gripping narrative, compelling performances, and the authenticity with which it presents a tale of quiet heroism.
