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Ground Zero Review: Emraan Hashmi's Most Powerful Performance

April 25th, 2025

By Rohan Gaikwad

Image: Excel Entertainment   

Set against the politically volatile backdrop of Kashmir, Ground Zero is not your typical action flick.

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Instead, it dives deep into the psyche of a Border Security Force officer who is caught between personal loss and national duty.

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And leading the charge is Emraan Hashmi, in one of his most nuanced performances to date.

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From the very first frame, the film sets a heavy tone.

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The direction is sharp, emotional, and filled with quiet, simmering tension.

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Hashmi stands tall here — quiet, composed, and completely in control.

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Sai Tamhankar appears briefly but leaves a lasting impression with minimal effort.

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Mukesh Tiwari and Lalit Prabhakar add realism to supporting roles.

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Kamaljeet Negi’s cinematography deserves a special mention for capturing contradictions.

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The music, surprisingly, doesn’t live up to Emraan Hashmi’s usual reputation.

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Luckily, the storytelling is so focused that the music becomes secondary.

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Overall, Ground Zero works because it feels real and never forced.

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There’s emotional weight, a moral conflict, and a lead worth rooting for.

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If you’re in the mood for a strong, thought-provoking military drama that’s more soul than spectacle, Ground Zero won’t disappoint.