Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 27: Ibrahim Ali Khan, once written off after the disaster that was Nadaaniyan, has surprised critics and audiences alike with a commendable performance in Sarzameen, a film otherwise plagued by poor lighting, confused storytelling, and underwhelming performances.

Nadaaniyan, a glossy Netflix original under the Dharmatic banner, was meant to be Ibrahim’s star-studded launch. Instead, it turned out to be a cinematic misfire, with cringeworthy dialogues and direction so lacking, it made his performance seem like a parody. Audiences were quick to dismiss him after the wooden delivery and tone-deaf execution of his character, Arjun.

Fast forward to Sarzameen, and the narrative around Ibrahim seems to be shifting. Directed by Kayoze Irani, the film attempts to tackle a heady mix of themes — family, patriotism, identity, and the Kashmir conflict — but falters in execution. Despite its ambitious plot and big names like Prithviraj Sukumaran and Kajol, the film struggles under its own weight. Scenes are shot in inexplicable darkness, and the emotional beats land inconsistently.

Yet, amid this chaos, Ibrahim stands out. Playing the conflicted Harman/Haaris, he delivers a surprisingly restrained and mature performance. His stammer is used with purpose, his emotional moments feel authentic, and his chemistry with Prithviraj brings genuine tension to the screen. Critics and even his co-star Prithviraj have suggested that Sarzameen should have been Ibrahim’s actual debut — and perhaps, they’re right.

Kajol, on the other hand, seems underutilized in her role as Meher. Her character, emotionally caught between a distant husband and a long-lost son, is reduced to tired melodrama, with little scope for her usual screen presence.

Despite the film’s muddled tone and oddly claustrophobic visuals, Ibrahim’s performance manages to pierce through. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s convincing — a far cry from the awkward overconfidence of his first outing.

With Sarzameen, Ibrahim Ali Khan might have just salvaged his trajectory in Bollywood. He’s not arrived yet, but at least now, he’s on the right track.