John Abraham’s much-awaited action thriller Tehran is now streaming on ZEE5 starting today, August 14, 2025. The film, which was originally planned for a theatrical release, has opted for a digital premiere due to its sensitive geopolitical themes. Inspired by real events, the movie promises high-octane action, political intrigue, and a gripping storyline set against the backdrop of tensions between Iran and Israel.
What Is Tehran About?
Tehran follows the story of ACP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham), a secret agent caught in a dangerous mission involving international espionage. The plot draws inspiration from the 2012 bomb blast near the Israeli Embassy in Delhi, blending real-world political tensions with fictional storytelling. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and patriotism as Rajeev navigates a mission that puts him at odds with multiple governments.
The movie also stars Manushi Chhillar as SI Divya Rana, alongside Neeru Bajwa, Madhurima Tuli, and Elnaaz Norouzi in key roles. Directed by Arun Gopalan and produced by Maddock Films, the film has been shot in multiple locations, including Glasgow, Mumbai, and Delhi.
Why Is Tehran Releasing on OTT Instead of Theaters?
Originally scheduled for a January 2023 theatrical release, Tehran faced multiple delays. Reports suggest that theater chains were hesitant to screen the film due to its politically sensitive subject matter. John Abraham expressed disappointment over skipping a theatrical release but acknowledged ZEE5 for providing a platform.
“While I am pleased the film is finally reaching audiences, the absence of a theatrical release is disappointing for me as an actor. I had hoped for the big-screen experience,” Abraham said in an interview.
Key Highlights of the Film
- Inspired by True Events: The story is loosely based on real-life geopolitical conflicts, adding a layer of authenticity.
- Strong Cast: Alongside John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar delivers a powerful performance as a fearless officer.
- High-Octane Action: The trailer showcases intense fight sequences, car chases, and dramatic confrontations.
- Patriotic Theme: Releasing on Independence Day, the film aligns with its themes of national duty and sacrifice.
What Critics and Fans Are Saying
Early reactions to the Tehran trailer have been positive, with praise for its fast-paced narrative and John Abraham’s intense performance. The film’s background score and cinematography have also been highlighted as standout elements.
“The trailer has everything—action, suspense, and a gripping storyline. John Abraham is back in his best form!” – A fan tweeted.
How to Watch Tehran
The film is available exclusively on ZEE5 starting today. Subscribers can stream it directly, while new users can sign up for a free trial. The runtime is 1 hour and 50 minutes, making it a compact yet impactful watch.
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan Wins First National Film Award for Best Actor After 33 Years for Jawan
After Tehran, John Abraham will be seen in Tariq, another action-packed film directed by Arun Gopalan. His previous film, The Diplomat, was a box office success and performed well on Netflix.
