Parmanu is powerful and would make every Indian proud

Cast: John Abraham, Diana Penty, Boman Irani and others

Rating: 3.5/5

As a child, we were told that History was one of the important subjects and it was vital for us to know what our country had gone through to achieve milestones and take India to new heights. But today, not many of us recollect what was taught and that's primarily because we were never given in-depth knowledge of missions, agencies, divisions, projects, treaties etc. Today when we come across such information which is significant to our nation, we feel bad on missing out topics which could have inspired us as a child. One such mission, which many in the country would now come to know (in detail) and will be proud of, is the Pokhran Nuclear Test mission.

More than two decades back, in 1995, India wasn't considered to be a superpower in the area of defence. We did not have research and strategy in place to understand the need and importance of nuclear tests. This was despite having fully functional divisions such as BARC, DRDO, ISA, Intelligence Bureau and many others. It was sheer lack of planning and priorities. But many years later, the then Vajpayee government realised its need and brought India to a global map, by successfully testing nuclear bombs in Pokhran. 

Revolving around this proud Indian moment is John Abraham's Parmanu. The film also stars Diana Penty and others. 

Capt. Ashwat Raina works with the Indian government as a research strategist focusing on India's defence projects. In a meeting with the higher officials, he presents a Nuclear Peace Project to ensure our nation is safe and given due respect when it comes to defence and warfare. The officials laugh at his idea, however, it is executed without giving him credits. But when it fails, he is blamed and fired from the position. He struggles to find a job for the next few years. Three years later the government changes and Vajpayee forms his core team to focus on the developments. It is here when they realise the need and after some thoughts, interrogation, he is hired again, for he has convinced that he wasn't heard completely back in 1995. His enthusiasm, zeal, and focus are tested by Himanshu Shukla (Boman Irani) who realises that Ashwat’s interest is only in this project through which he wants to earn his name and respect like that of his father's. He is given permission to form a team which could lead him to success with his project, for the benefit of the nation. Ambalika (Diana Penty) and four others join his team which proves to be Ashwat’s final chance to prove his word and worth. He makes 'Team Pandava’ inspired by Mahabharata, where each person is given a role based on their expertise. Everyone is deployed to Pokhran, where they begin the mission. The film then on revolves around facts and the journey these Pandavas go through.

We all understand John Abraham fits the role of an officer really well. He has proved that he can ace characters which needs strength, power, and physical skills. But, with Parmanu, it's a double win for him once again. After making a mark as a producer (and an actor) in Madras Cafe, it is clear that John has a keen eye for scripts and concepts. Produced in association with Zee Studios, Parmanu is a film which has balanced facts and fiction to perfection. The film opens with a brief narration of the historic event which serves as a background for those who are unaware of it. The fictional part of the film has been written with nuances giving significant importance to facts, dates and other information from the records. Incorporation of the file footage used in the film supports the script very well throughout the showcase, as it keeps the audience aware of the history and reality.

John Abraham as Ashwat is remarkable. This time, thankfully so, the makers have wisely not focused on showing his physique. Ashwat’s mental strength and grit come across thoroughly on-screen. Boman Irani as Himanshu Shukla has less on-screen space, but it is important. He is tough yet vulnerable and swings between the emotions well. But the mission 'Parmanu’ wouldn't be successful if the team hadn't delivered their best. The Pandavas cast for the film nail their characters. Besides Arjun and Nakul, others are relatively new faces for the audience, but despite that, they make their role valued and memorable. This film is a true example of teamwork, and everyone deserves appreciation for contributing equally to this success. 

The script and editing are to the point and dialogues are apt. The writers have ensured that they add pun seamlessly in the film, and they succeed in doing so. Music is good but doesn't linger post the film. It supports the visuals but doesn't stand apart as an audio album. 

To sum it up, for many, this historic event will be a lesson learned late, but for good, in the best way possible. We all know that today it is difficult for filmmakers to please the audience with films, but with films and stories like Parmanu, it is definite that the viewers will walk out proud and impressed. This attempt by John Abraham and his team will win accolades.