Secret agents have long been a favorite in Bollywood action films. In recent years, they’ve grown into a full-fledged spy universe, filled with some of the industry’s biggest stars, from ‘Tiger’ to ‘Pathaan’.
But ‘Berlin’, directed by Atul Sabharwal, offers something different. Streaming on Zee5, this film takes a more subdued approach, focusing on the human side of espionage rather than the glamorous, high-octane world we’re used to seeing. The result is a slow-burn thriller that subverts the usual expectations of Bollywood spy dramas.
A Quiet, Cautionary Spy Tale
‘Berlin’ isn’t your typical spy movie. It lacks the grandeur and star power of its predecessors, opting instead for a more intimate, thoughtful story. With no songs, minimal background music, and characters that are far from heroic, ‘Berlin’ offers a sobering look at the world of espionage. The film is more about survival and manipulation than saving the world, focusing on ordinary people caught in the crossfire of intelligence agencies.
While it may not be the explosive, action-packed spy thriller audiences are used to, *Berlin* slowly draws you in with its subdued tone and careful attention to detail.
Plot Overview: Espionage in the Shadows
Set in 1993, ‘Berlin’ revolves around Ashok Kumar (played by Ishwak Singh), a deaf-mute man accused of spying for a foreign country. He works as a waiter at a fictional café in Connaught Place, frequented by government officials and secret agents who use the venue to trade classified information. The café, also called *Berlin*, serves as the backdrop for the unfolding drama.
When Ashok is arrested by the Bureau, one of two rival intelligence agencies, he is charged with treason. Leading the investigation is Satpal Dhingra (played by Rahul Bose), a senior officer with questionable motives. Dhingra recruits Pushkin Verma (played by Aparshakti Khurrana), a schoolteacher for deaf-mute children, to interpret Ashok’s sign language during the interrogation.
As Pushkin questions Ashok, the line between truth and lies becomes increasingly blurred, and the characters find themselves drawn into a dangerous world of espionage, manipulation, and survival.
A Unique Spy Film Without Heroes
Unlike Bollywood’s usual portrayal of spies as fearless heroes, ‘Berlin’shows the more flawed, human side of intelligence work. The characters aren’t out to save the world—they’re trying to protect their own interests and survive.
Ashok remains an enigmatic figure throughout the film. Is he an innocent bystander, or does he know more than he’s letting on? Ishwak Singh delivers a powerful performance, keeping the audience guessing as the plot unfolds. Meanwhile, Aparshakti Khurrana plays Pushkin with a mix of confusion and determination, portraying a man who is clearly out of his depth but still trying to navigate the murky waters of espionage.
A Realistic Take on Espionage
One of the most striking elements of ‘Berlin’ is its realistic portrayal of espionage. In one scene, the chief of the Wing, the rival intelligence agency, tells Pushkin that spies don’t have all the answers. “We also guess,” he admits, showing that even intelligence agents rely on speculation and aren’t the infallible figures they’re often portrayed as in films.
This candid portrayal of spies as ordinary people with doubts and misgivings is one of the film’s strengths. It sets Berlin apart from the larger-than-life spy dramas that have become a staple of Bollywood.
A Subtle, Tension-Filled Narrative
Berlin opts for a slower, more thoughtful narrative compared to typical Bollywood spy thrillers. There are a few quick chase scenes and moments of rough action, but the film avoids excessive violence or rhetoric. Instead, it focuses on the quieter, more psychological aspects of espionage.
The film’s color palette and minimal background music enhance its muted tone, creating an atmosphere of tension that builds gradually. The use of sign language, in particular, adds a unique layer to the storytelling, with the characters’ silent communication heightening the suspense.
The Power Struggle Between Agencies
While Ashok and Pushkin are at the center of the story, the larger conflict between the Bureau and the Wing plays a crucial role. The two intelligence agencies are at odds, each playing their own game to gain the upper hand. This rivalry adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, as the characters are constantly trying to outmaneuver each other.
The film’s political backdrop—a state visit by a post-Cold War Russian president negotiating a cryogenic rocket deal—further complicates matters, with both intelligence agencies scrambling to protect India’s guest while advancing their own agendas.
Strong Performances from the Cast
The performances in ‘Berlin’ are understated yet compelling. Ishwak Singh is particularly impressive as Ashok, delivering a performance that is both expressive and mysterious. His ability to convey so much through silence and gesture adds depth to the character, leaving the audience questioning his innocence.
Aparshakti Khurrana, known for his more comedic roles, steps into a dramatic part with ease. As Pushkin, he effectively portrays a man caught in a situation far beyond his control, balancing confusion and determination as he navigates the dangerous world of espionage.
Rahul Bose, as the morally ambiguous Dhingra, adds another layer of intrigue to the film. His character’s motivations are unclear, and Bose masterfully plays the role without going over the top, keeping the audience guessing about his true intentions.
A Time Capsule of the Early 1990s
Set in 1993, ‘Berlin’ takes place during a period of significant geopolitical change. The film captures the tension of the post-Cold War era, as countries grappled with shifting alliances and new power dynamics. The period setting also allows the film to explore espionage without the hyper-nationalistic overtones often present in modern spy dramas.
While the film’s attention to detail is commendable, some of the exterior shots and the design of the café feel more reminiscent of the 1970s than the 1990s. This minor flaw doesn’t detract significantly from the film but does stand out to keen-eyed viewers.
A Thoughtful Departure from Bollywood’s Spy Universe
For those expecting a typical Bollywood spy thriller, ‘Berlin’ may seem underwhelming at first. It lacks the flashy action sequences, glamorous stars, and over-the-top heroics that have come to define the genre. However, it’s this very departure from the norm that makes *Berlin* a standout.
Director Atul Sabharwal deserves credit for crafting a film that focuses on character development, moral ambiguity, and the human side of espionage. ‘Berlin’ is a quiet, thoughtful film that offers a refreshing alternative to the usual Bollywood fare.
A Slow-Burn Spy Thriller Worth Watching
‘Berlin’ may not have the mass appeal of Bollywood’s bigger spy films, but it’s a film that rewards patience. With its strong performances, realistic portrayal of espionage, and subdued tone, it offers a unique take on the genre. For viewers looking for a more grounded, character-driven spy drama, *Berlin* is well worth a watch.
