Khufiya is a movie adaptation of the espionage novel Escape to Nowhere by Amar Bhushan, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj. The film boasts a high-profile ensemble, featuring notable actors such as Ali Fazal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Ashish Vidyarthi. The film follows Ravi Mohan (Ali Fazal), suspected of being a RAW agent and accused of leaking classified information to the CIA. His mentor and colleague, Krishna Mehra (Tabu), is determined to uncover his motives. The movie also delves into how Ravi’s actions affect his family, including his wife Vama (Wamiqa Gabbi), son, and mother (Nimrat Kaur).

What Works in Khufiya?

The film distinguishes itself from typical spy thrillers by offering several commendable features, one of which is its authentic depiction of agents and their professional endeavors. Unlike the glamorous and action-packed movies like Pathan and Tiger, Khufiya shows the agents in a mostly mundane and tedious environment, where they have to snoop on individuals for hours and analyze CCTV footage for clues. This gives a more authentic and grounded feel to the movie, as it reflects the actual work of intelligence agencies.

Another aspect that works well in Khufiya is the wicked and twisted humor that is typical of Vishal Bhardwaj’s movies. The movie has some hilarious moments, especially when Ravi’s mother (Nimrat Kaur) is involved. She delivers some of the most vindictive and god-awful things with a smile on her face, making the audience laugh at the most unexpected times. The humor also adds some contrast and relief to the otherwise serious and tense plot.

What Doesn’t Work in Khufiya?

Nevertheless, the film is marred by certain shortcomings that hinder its ability to become a compelling and captivating spy thriller. One issue is the conflicting themes that collide and detract from the movie’s overall focus. The film attempts to juggle between serving as a spy thriller, a social commentary, and a poetic drama, but falls short of excelling in any of these aspects. Despite its nearly 2 hours and 40-minute runtime, the movie fails to maintain the audience’s engagement with the central plot.

The movie also tries to explore the characters’ identities and personalities beyond their roles as agents, wives, mothers, or sons. For example, Krishna Mehra struggles to be a quintessential wife and mother, while hiding her true profession from her son. Vama has a hidden side that she only expresses when she is alone at home. Ravi’s distorted sense of nationalism, which drives him to betray his homeland, presents intriguing character dimensions that, unfortunately, remain underdeveloped and loosely intertwined with the narrative. These elements tend to feel like divergences from the primary plot, which is meant to revolve around espionage and global diplomacy. Additionally, the film grapples with issues of inadequate execution and questionable writing decisions, which diminish its credibility and ability to engross the audience. For example, the integration of Ram Sampath’s music and Arijit Singh’s vocals is laughable and out of place in a spy thriller. The movie also borrows heavily from other movies like Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway and Raazi, but does not offer anything new or original.

Khufiya: An Honest Conversation with the Cast and Director

Khufiya is a movie that has generated a lot of buzz and curiosity among the audience, as it is an adaptation of the espionage novel Escape to Nowhere by Amar Bhushan, directed by the legendary Vishal Bhardwaj. The movie features a stellar cast, including Ali Fazal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Ashish Vidyarthi. At the heart of the film is the narrative of Ravi Mohan (portrayed by Ali Fazal), an alleged RAW agent facing accusations of divulging classified information to the CIA. His mentor and colleague, Krishna Mehra (Tabu), has a personal stake in exposing him and his motives.

Additionally, the film delves into how Ravi’s actions affect his personal life, involving his wife, Vama (Wamiqa Gabbi), son, and mother (Nimrat Kaur). In this article, we feature an exclusive, candid conversation with Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Vishal Bhardwaj, where they discuss their experiences working on “Khufiya,” their perspectives on the movie’s social and political themes, and their diverse journeys as artists and filmmakers in various industries.

Vishal Bhardwaj on the Challenges of Making Khufiya

Vishal Bhardwaj, a highly esteemed and respected filmmaker in India, renowned for crafting unforgettable and impactful works like “Maqbool,” “Omkara,” “Haider,” and “Kaminey,” is celebrated for his distinctive and subversive storytelling style. Through his unique vision and voice, he often addresses the nation’s social and political issues.

Yet, Bhardwaj concedes that creating “Khufiya” proved to be a formidable undertaking due to the challenges and constraints brought about by evolving times and the sensitive nature of the subject matter. He highlights the need for increased creativity and caution in conveying his intended message, given the heightened vulnerability, oversensitivity, and hyperreactivity prevalent in the country.

Furthermore, he notes that contemporary producers and financiers are more reserved, reluctant to voice their opinions and concerns, reflecting the prevailing atmosphere of fear. As a result, compromises were necessary in certain aspects of the film, including the music and writing, leading to substantial inspiration drawn from other movies such as “Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway” and “Raazi.”

In attempting to harmonize the elements of a spy thriller, a social commentary, and a poetic drama, Bhardwaj laments his inability to do justice to any of these facets. He admits to spreading himself too thin, aiming to be multifaceted but ultimately achieving none of the intended objectives.

Wamiqa Gabbi on Working in Different Industries

Wamiqa Gabbi is a talented and versatile actress who has worked in different industries and languages across the board. She has impressed us with her performances in movies like Jab We Met, Mausam, Love Aaj Kal 2, Godha, Nikka Zaildar 2, Parahuna, Dil Diyan Gallan, Asuraguru, Nine Hours in Mumbai, and many more. She has also been a part of web series like “Grahan” and “Chutzpah.” She emphasizes that her experience working in diverse entertainment industries has been exceptionally advantageous for her as an actress. This exposure has enabled her to glean valuable insights from distinct cultures and filmmaking styles. She further explains that the opportunity to work in various languages is something she relishes because it continually challenges her to enhance her expressive abilities. Collaborating with a wide array of directors and actors is something she greatly values, as it contributes significantly to her growth as an artist.

In particular, she expresses her elation at fulfilling a dream by working with Vishal Bhardwaj, a director she has long admired for his movies and visionary storytelling. She recalls her excitement when collaborating with him on “Khufiya,” where she portrays the character of Vama, Ravi’s wife. She fondly remembers the enjoyable experience of working alongside Ali Fazal and Nimrat Kaur, who assume the roles of her husband and mother-in-law, respectively. She notes that their on-screen and off-screen chemistry was exceptional.

Her aspirations extend to continuing her journey in various entertainment industries and languages, including Tamil, Malayalam, Punjabi, Hindi, English, and more. She underscores her intent not to confine herself to a single industry or genre, expressing a desire to explore diverse roles and characters that continuously push her boundaries as an actress.

Ali Fazal on His Journey as an Actor

Ali Fazal is one of the most promising and talented actors in India today. He has shown his versatility and range in movies like 3 Idiots, Fukrey, Bobby Jasoos, Khamoshiyan, Happy Bhag Jayegi, Victoria & Abdul, Mirzapur, Death on the Nile, and many more. He has also been a part of web series like Bang Baaja Baaraat, Breathe: Into The Shadows, and Ray.

Ali Fazal contemplates his path as an actor, likening it to a rollercoaster journey replete with ups and downs, rejections and successes, challenges and opportunities. He reminisces about his enduring passion for acting, a calling that has been with him since childhood. His career took root in the theater, where he honed the fundamental skills of the craft, and his fondness for the stage remains, with aspirations of returning to it someday.

The experience of working on “Khufiya” stands out for him as he portrayed Ravi Mohan, a suspected RAW agent accused of leaking sensitive information to the CIA. He underscores the extensive research and preparation involved in comprehending the psychological complexities and motivations of his character. Bringing to life a character with a convoluted sense of nationalism that leads to betrayal was a particularly demanding task.

Working with Vishal Bhardwaj was an exceptional honor and privilege, as he has long admired both Bhardwaj’s films and music. He characterizes Bhardwaj as a genius and master storyteller capable of weaving cinematic magic. Collaborating with Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Nimrat Kaur provided both pleasure and a valuable learning experience, as he views them as brilliant and accomplished actors. Despite the film’s intense and serious plot, he recalls an atmosphere of fun and laughter on the set.

He expresses gratitude for the opportunities and recognition he has gained in his career thus far. His commitment is to continue striving diligently and enhancing his skills as an actor. His aspirations are to embrace diverse roles and genres that challenge and surprise him. Additionally, he harbors ambitions to work across various entertainment industries and languages, encompassing Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional cinema. He underscores his intention to avoid being pigeonholed into a single label or image, aspiring to be an actor with boundless versatility.

Ali Fazal on the Writer’s Strike and the OTT Platforms

Khufiya is a movie that has created a lot of interest and curiosity among the audience, as it is an adaptation of the espionage novel Escape to Nowhere by Amar Bhushan, directed by the renowned Vishal Bhardwaj. The film boasts a high-profile ensemble, with notable actors such as Ali Fazal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Ashish Vidyarthi. The central narrative of the movie revolves around Ravi Mohan (played by Ali Fazal), who is under suspicion as a RAW agent facing allegations of divulging sensitive information to the CIA. His mentor and colleague, Krishna Mehra (Tabu), has a personal stake in exposing him and his motives. The movie also explores the impact of Ravi’s actions on his personal life, which consists of his wife Vama (Wamiqa Gabbi), his son, and his mother (Nimrat Kaur).

In this article, we present an exclusive and unfiltered conversation with Ali Fazal, where he talks about his experience of working on Khufiya, his opinion on the writer’s strike that is happening in the West, and his view on the OTT platforms that are dominating the entertainment industry.

Ali Fazal on Working on Khufiya

Working on “Khufiya” was a remarkable experience for Ali Fazal, portraying Ravi Mohan, a suspected RAW agent accused of leaking sensitive information to the CIA. He delved into extensive research and preparation, seeking to understand the psychology and motivation of his character—a complex and conflicted figure, driven by a warped sense of nationalism leading to betrayal.

Collaborating with Vishal Bhardwaj was both an honor and privilege, considering Fazal’s longstanding admiration for Bhardwaj’s cinematic and musical genius. Furthermore, working alongside Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Nimrat Kaur was a delightful and instructive experience, given their exceptional talents. Surprisingly, despite the film’s tense plot, the set was filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Ali Fazal on the Writer’s Strike

Ali Fazal stands out as one of the select Indian actors who have left an indelible imprint on Hollywood, with notable roles in films like “Victoria & Abdul” and “Death on the Nile.” His presence has extended to the realm of web series, with participation in projects like “Ray,” produced by Netflix. Ali Fazal is deeply thankful for the doors that have opened in the Western entertainment industry and the recognition he’s received. However, he acknowledges the challenges, notably the ongoing writer’s strike, a pressing issue in the Western entertainment realm.

The writer’s strike is a protest by thousands of writers who are demanding better pay and working conditions from the studios and streaming platforms. The strike has been going on since October 2021, and it has disrupted many productions and projects.

Ali Fazal voices his strong support for the ongoing writer’s strike, firmly believing that writers serve as the bedrock of any narrative and, as such, deserve utmost respect and fair treatment. He underscores the prevalent issues faced by writers, including being underpaid, overworked, and grappling with problems like plagiarism, exploitation, and censorship. He emphasizes the need for writers to have greater creative control and ownership over their work, coupled with appropriate compensation.

Fazal expresses his hope for a swift resolution of the writer’s strike, recognizing that it affects not only the writers themselves but also the actors who rely on their creations for their livelihoods. He envisions a constructive dialogue and negotiation process between writers and producers that leads to a mutually beneficial agreement. He is optimistic that such cooperation and harmony within the industry will ultimately yield superior stories and enhanced entertainment.

Ali Fazal on the OTT Platforms

Ali Fazal is a trailblazer in the Indian web series realm, having featured in hit shows like “Bang Baaja Baaraat,” “Breathe: Into The Shadows,” and “Mirzapur.” He relishes the creative freedom and versatility web series offer, allowing him to tackle diverse roles and genres that challenge and surprise him. Web series also provide him with a broader global audience reach.

 

He commends the transformative impact of OTT platforms in India, enabling marginalized talents in the industry to shine. These platforms have become the voice for stories and issues often suppressed by traditional media.

 

Fazal is optimistic about the future of Indian OTT platforms, foreseeing continued production of high-quality, original content catering to various audience tastes. He hopes these platforms will uphold their creative integrity, respecting the rights and interests of writers, actors, and artists. His dedication to working in different mediums, genres, and languages, transcending labels and images, remains his driving force.

Ali Fazal on His Cross-Over Journey

Khufiya is a movie that has created a lot of interest and curiosity among the audience, as it is an adaptation of the espionage novel Escape to Nowhere by Amar Bhushan, directed by the renowned Vishal Bhardwaj. The film boasts a stellar ensemble, featuring Ali Fazal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Ashish Vidyarthi. Its narrative centers on Ravi Mohan (played by Ali Fazal), a suspected RAW agent facing allegations of leaking sensitive information to the CIA. Within this espionage tale, his mentor and colleague, Krishna Mehra (Tabu), has a personal interest in exposing him and his motivations. Additionally, the movie delves into the repercussions of Ravi’s actions on his personal life, which includes his wife Vama (Wamiqa Gabbi), son, and mother (Nimrat Kaur).

In this article, we present an exclusive and unfiltered conversation with Ali Fazal, where he talks about his experience of working on Khufiya, his opinion on the writer’s strike that is happening in the West, and his view on the OTT platforms that are dominating the entertainment industry.

Ali Fazal on His Cross-Over Journey

Ali Fazal, a standout Indian actor known for his roles in Hollywood films like “Victoria & Abdul” and “Death on the Nile” and Netflix’s “Ray,” is profoundly grateful for the opportunities his Western ventures have provided. His cross-over journey wasn’t devoid of challenges, requiring dedication, the dismantling of stereotypes, and acclimatization to diverse work cultures.

Over recent years, Fazal has witnessed a shift in the Western attitude toward Indian cinema and actors, with growing respect and acceptance. He’s proud to have represented India on the international stage and believes that the cross-over journey has enriched his perspectives as an actor.

 

Eager to continue his cross-over journey, Fazal is poised for new roles and genres that offer challenge and surprise. He’s committed to working in diverse industries and languages, rejecting confinement to a single label or image, with the goal of being an actor of boundless capability.
Ali Fazal on the Differences and Advantages of Working in the West

Khufiya” is a much-anticipated espionage movie, adapted from Amar Bhushan’s novel “Escape to Nowhere,” and skillfully directed by Vishal Bhardwaj. The film features a star-studded cast including Ali Fazal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Ashish Vidyarthi. It centers around Ravi Mohan (Ali Fazal), a suspected RAW agent accused of leaking sensitive information to the CIA, leading to a personal vendetta with his mentor and colleague, Krishna Mehra (Tabu). The movie delves into the consequences of Ravi’s actions on his family, including his wife Vama (Wamiqa Gabbi), son, and mother (Nimrat Kaur).

In an exclusive conversation, Ali Fazal shares insights into his experience working on “Khufiya,” his take on the ongoing writer’s strike in the West, and his perspective on the influential role of OTT platforms in the entertainment industry.

Ali Fazal on the Differences and Advantages of Working in the West

Ali Fazal, a standout Indian actor in Hollywood with films like “Victoria & Abdul” and “Death on the Nile” and web series like Netflix’s “Ray,” appreciates the doors his Western success has opened for him. He’s noticed key differences and advantages:

1. Production Styles: The movie-making process is largely similar, but there are variations in budget, scale, and technology. Fazal has worked on projects of all sizes in both industries and has learned from diverse directors and actors.
2. Auditions and Challenges: Auditioning in the West brought more rejections and competition. Fazal faced stereotypes, visa and language barriers, and sometimes discrimination, but remained resilient.
3. Promotion and Marketing: Marketing has evolved with the rise of OTT platforms and social media. Actors are now more engaged and visible on various platforms, leading to increased collaboration between actors from different industries.
4. Actor Involvement: Actors in both industries have gained more control over their projects. Fazal himself is a producer, appreciating the creative freedom and ownership it provides.

Fazal is content with his cross-over journey, representing India internationally, and looks forward to exploring diverse roles and industries while shunning labels or limitations.