Emraan Hashmi steps into the shoes of Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, a BSF officer, who led a critical operation to capture Ghazi Baba, in Tejas Deoskar’s Ground Zero. The film arrives in theatres today. If military dramas are your favourites, do read our review of Ground Zero.
About Ground Zero
Kashmir, the breathtaking valley that has cries of millions hidden beneath its blanket of pristine snow and Dal Lake water, has witnessed brutal terrorist activities. The silence, once a symbol of peace, has become synonymous with fear. Call it a coincidence or a fearful reminder that the tension still exists, Tejas Deoskar’s Ground Zero celebrates the bravery of Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, a BSF officer, who led a critical operation to capture Ghazi Baba, the mastermind behind countless ruthless attacks, including Akshardham. Headlined by Emraan Hashmi, the biopic releases in theatres today.
Ground Zero Movie Review: Plot
Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey (Emraan Hashmi) is the ‘best officer’ of the Border Security Force (BSF). Along with his team, he has to track down terrorists and bust their gangs to keep the country safe. Tragedy hits home when the security guard responsible for protecting the army children and their bus is shot dead right outside the school. Naren has to step forward and identify the militants/terrorists. While he’s on the battlefield, his wife (Sai Tamhankar) holds the fort at home and stands strong like a pillar. More than duty, the mission to find Ghazi Baba, the mastermind behind the attacks, becomes a personal commitment.
Ground Zero Movie Review: What works
Ground Zero begins with a picturesque shot of the Kashmir we dream of: a steady flowing stream, boats cutting through silent waters and a slow, peaceful morning. We’re introduced to a group of young boys who are hired to shoot ‘faujis’. On the other hand, Narendra rescues a lad amid a tense firing between the army and an unidentified shooter. Ground Zero starts well. The direction is tight, engaging and prompt enough to hold attention. The constant activity on the screen translates urgency correctly. Director Tejas Deoskar knows the art of building tension. When the film is in action, it is at its peak. Bullets cut through eerie silences. It works brilliantly. The ‘naya Hindustan ghar mein ghuske maarega’ sentiment that Vicky Kaushal’s Uri – The Surgical Strike sparked is still ignited. The drama takes centre stage only when Narendra and the young Kashmiri boy, Hussain, bond over redemption, compassion and family. To see an officer share such a genuine, selfless bond with a potential threat is progressively thoughtful and flawlessly depicted. Ground Zero could have attained more had it been braver, sharper and edgier. The background score adds to the haunting scenarios in Kashmir.
Ground Zero Movie Review: What doesn’t work
Ground Zero falters on its ambitions. Films like Uri, Baby and recently, The Diplomat were wittier, sharper and crisper in terms of the communication. After a well-woven opening sequence, it falls flat until another chase wakes the senses up. The film is not concerned about giving the antagonist a strong core to match the protagonist’s level. The conflict is weak. Characters are ineffective, and some are even too insignificant to feel pain and grief. Ground Zero follows a straight tone, without exploring subplots. Intermittently engaging, it narrowly missed the mark that could have made it a spellbinding watch.
Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/reviews/ground-zero-movie-review-review-151489288