Revolving around the politically charged backdrop of 1993, Berlin navigates through a slew of espionage, suspicion, and intrigue, with sterling performances from Aparshakti Khurana, Ishwak Singh, Rahul Bose, and Anupriya Goenka. The movie focuses on the investigation of a deaf-mute man suspected of being a foreign infiltrator, unravelling layer by layer.
The film begins with a great sense of nostalgia, capturing the 90s through its costumes, sets, and backdrops. The tone echoes a time when the nation, still reeling from Cold War aftereffects, viewed every foreign mission with suspicion. The set design, featuring old phones, typewriters, and grainy cinematography, feels authentic to the era.
Aparshakti Khurana, portraying a sign language teacher called in to interrogate the prisoner (Ishwak Singh's character), delivers what may be his most accomplished performance yet. His portrayal, filled with emotion, frustration, and empathy, becomes entangled in the mystery behind Singh’s silent pleas. As Khurana uncovers the truth, the film withholds the reason behind its title, *Berlin*, adding an enigmatic layer to the narrative.
Ishwak Singh’s portrayal of the deaf-mute prisoner is striking, with his silence speaking louder than words. Through gestures and expressions alone, he conveys incredible depth. Rahul Bose and Anupriya Goenka support the leads well, though their characters could have been developed further for a more layered plot.
The film excels in its investigation and interrogation scenes, with each question adding suspense. However, after a gripping first half, the movie slows down post-interval. The pacing becomes sluggish and repetitive, making it challenging to stay fully engaged. Despite these slow moments, *Berlin* offers enough intrigue for a worthwhile watch.
With a 7/10 IMDb rating, Berlin stands out for its powerful performances, especially by Aparshakti Khurana, and its well-crafted 90s setting. The film’s strength lies in its authenticity, while its pacing is its weakest point. The title *Berlin* remains enigmatic until the end, keeping viewers guessing.
In short, Berlin is a film worth watching for its performances and portrayal of a bygone era. If you enjoy spy dramas or slow-burn narratives, it’s a must-watch.
Comments