Sarzameen is finally streaming on Jio Hotstar, and it brings together a powerful trio—Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kajol, and Ibrahim Ali Khan—in a tense mix of family drama, patriotism, and betrayal. Directed by Kayoze Irani and produced by Karan Johar, the film runs for around 2 hours and 15 minutes, taking you through a gripping father-son conflict set against the backdrop of the Indian Army and terrorism.
From the very first frame, it’s clear that Sarzameen is not just another repetitive India-Pakistan war drama. Prithviraj Sukumaran as Colonel Vijay Menon commands the screen with his striking presence, sharp Hindi delivery, and intense emotional depth. His character prioritizes duty and country above all else, even if it means questioning his blood.
A terrorist group holds a young boy (Ibrahim’s childhood character) captive at the start of the story. Prithviraj’s officer, in a tense exchange gone wrong, chooses the nation over negotiation, resulting in a heartbreaking separation. Years later, the grown-up son (Ibrahim) returns, but suspicion hangs heavy—has he been brainwashed by the very enemies his father fights?
The first half of the film builds this emotional storm steadily, showing a father torn between love and doubt. Sharp twists, emotional confrontations, and intense action moments characterize the second half of the film. The climax, while dramatic, will spark mixed reactions—some viewers regard the attempt to humanize the antagonist as confusing, but it does leave a strong aftertaste of patriotism and family values.
Sarzameen excels in its performances and BGM. Kajol delivers a heartfelt portrayal of a mother caught in the crossfire between duty and love, while Prithviraj’s commanding aura steals the show. The background score is tight, adding a thrilling undertone to every major scene, and the Kashmir locations provide the film a raw, authentic vibe.
This isn’t a war-heavy film like Uri or Border. Instead, it’s a father-son emotional thriller with patriotism woven into the narrative. It’s not flawless—the storyline feels predictable at times, and the emotional bond could have been stronger—but the pacing keeps you hooked, and the suspenseful ending leaves you satisfied.
In Sarzameen, Ibrahim Ali Khan delivers a performance that quietly earns its place. Playing a young man torn between loyalty and lost time, he brings a rare sincerity to the screen—one that wasn’t expected but can’t be ignored. His emotional graph shifts from soft vulnerability to heavy inner conflict, and while a few moments still carry traces of Saif, what truly stands out is Ibrahim carving his space.
He does not seek attention through loudness; instead, he consistently appears, scene after scene, with a composed focus. Even Kajol admitted, “The director worked hardest on him,” and it shows—no shortcuts, no privilege pass—just raw effort.
He may not steal the spotlight yet, but he doesn’t drop it either. And for a debut—that’s more than enough.
In a brutally honest and emotional interview with Bollywood Hungama, Kajol made it clear—Ibrahim Ali Khan didn’t receive any star kid shortcut.
“The director worked much harder on Ibrahim than on actors like me or Prithviraj”
Kajol bluntly stated. Why? This was his inaugural film, and the pressure was genuine.
Kajol revealed that Ibrahim was quiet, nervous, but entirely focused. “He was scared of me,” she laughed, “but he always came prepared, fully aware of his scenes.” She also mentioned that the camera naturally loved him, just as it once did with Saif, but she added,
“Looking good isn’t enough.”
“You have to feel the character, and he tried his best every single day.”
What was her most impactful statement?
“I’m proud of what he’s done in the film.”
That single sentence conveys everything. Ibrahim may have entered the film as Saif’s son, but if his performance resonates well, he could emerge as the actor Ibrahim.
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