Berlin Review: A Slow-Burn Spy Thriller That Keeps You Guessing

When it comes to spy thrillers, the new film on ZEE5 Global, Berlin, offers a unique take. The movie, directed by Atul Sabharwal, is set in the politically charged atmosphere of 1990s New Delhi. It brings together Aparshakti Khurana, playing Pushkin Verma, a sign language interpreter, and Ishwak Singh, portraying Ashok Kumar, a deaf suspect accused of espionage. With a plot that focuses heavily on interrogation, the film cleverly unravels through layers of suspense, drawing viewers into a world where silence speaks louder than words.

The Plot: An Unlikely Hero

Khurana’s character, Pushkin, isn’t your typical action star. He’s a sign language expert caught in a tangled web of deception and political gamesmanship. Brought in to interpret for Ashok, he quickly finds himself navigating a much more complex situation than he anticipated. Ashok is suspected of being a spy, but this isn’t a flashy James Bond-style film. The tension builds slowly, mostly taking place within a single interrogation room, with just a few diversions into the outside world.

Despite the film’s quiet, slow-burn nature, it does an excellent job of keeping you on edge. Berlin is more cerebral than most spy thrillers, focusing on the subtlety of communication and the vulnerability of those caught in the middle. The deliberate pacing mirrors the suspenseful build-up, where every gesture and word takes on a greater significance.

The Performances: Standout Roles

Aparshakti Khurana shines in a role that is worlds apart from his usual comedic characters. As Pushkin, he adds an element of tension and subtlety, reflecting the anxiety of someone out of their depth but forced to adapt. Meanwhile, Ishwak Singh’s portrayal of Ashok adds layers to the film, especially with his ability to communicate despite being deaf, making for an intriguing dynamic between the two characters. The performances are bolstered by a supporting cast that includes heavy hitters like Rahul Bose and Kabir Bedi, bringing gravitas to the otherwise quiet, minimalist plot.

Khurana, in particular, steps outside his comfort zone, as noted in interviews. The role required him to convey a mix of vulnerability and newfound courage as Pushkin slowly realizes just how deep the deception runs.

Strengths and Weaknesses: The Pace Could Use a Kick

While the movie succeeds in creating a tense atmosphere, the slow pace might not appeal to everyone. If you’re hoping for fast-paced action, Berlin may leave you wanting more. Sure, there are moments of intrigue—especially when Pushkin gets caught up in the espionage, or when Ashok’s past starts to unravel—but the film sometimes gets bogged down in dialogue-heavy scenes. There are even moments when the mystery feels a bit too drawn out, especially as new characters and plotlines are introduced.

Still, the film’s strong performances and subtle storytelling manage to hold your attention, even when the action lags. The soundtrack, dominated by soft piano melodies, works perfectly to set the mood, enhancing the espionage vibes without ever overwhelming the scenes.

The Espionage Element: Deaf, But Far From Blind

One of the most interesting aspects of Berlin is how it uses Ashok’s deafness as an advantage. He’s not just an observer, but someone who can pick up on details that others miss. This adds an extra layer of suspense, as viewers start to question what Ashok has seen and heard—or, more accurately, what he has perceived. Even though he’s unable to hear, his sharp observational skills make him a formidable spy.

The café setting in Berlin, used as a meeting point for various government agencies, adds a unique twist to the spy genre. The idea that deaf people frequent the café to prevent eavesdropping is an interesting plot device, and it serves as a reminder that espionage isn’t always about guns and car chases. Sometimes, it’s about who you can trust—or, more often, who you can’t.

Final Verdict: A Spy Thriller for the Patient Viewer

Berlin may not be everyone’s cup of tea. It lacks the action-packed sequences of Hollywood blockbusters and instead opts for a more intellectual, character-driven narrative. But for those who appreciate a slow-burn thriller filled with suspense, it’s a rewarding watch. Aparshakti Khurana and Ishwak Singh deliver standout performances, and the film’s plot—while a bit meandering at times—provides enough intrigue to keep you hooked.

This isn’t your average spy flick. Instead, Berlin asks viewers to pay attention to the quiet moments, where the real story unfolds. It’s a fresh take on the genre, and while it could use a bit more speed at times, the end result is worth the wait.