The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown as ZEE5 Global, the world’s largest streaming platform for South Asian content, unveils the heart-pounding trailer for ‘Berlin,’ a spy thriller that promises to keep viewers glued to their screens. Premiering on -September 13th this pulse-racing espionage drama is helmed by the visionary director Atul Sabharwal, and has a powerhouse cast including Aparshakti Khurana, Ishwak Singh, Rahul Bose, Anupriya Goenka, and Kabir Bedi. Set in the politically charged atmosphere of 1990s New Delhi, ‘Berlin’ promises to redefine the spy thriller genre for Indian audiences. This high-octane movie, a collaboration between Zee Studios and Yippee Ki Yay Motion Pictures, plunges viewers into a world where trust is a luxury, and every decision could be fatal.
In the frigid winter of 1993 New Delhi, ‘Berlin’ unfolds as a tense espionage thriller when authorities arrest a deaf-mute young man ([Ishwak Singh] on suspicion of being a foreign spy. The case takes a complex turn as a skilled sign language expert [Aparshakti Khurana] is brought in to interpret, only to find himself drawn into a web of intrigue. With accusations of aiding a notorious spy [Anupriya Gonenka], the truth becomes elusive, and an intelligence officer [Rahul Bose] races against time to uncover it. But as rival agencies and unseen forces conspire, a startling revelation turns the case upside down: could the real spy be someone hiding in plain sight? Berlin has captivated audiences at several international film festivals, such as MAMI, Stars Asian International Film Festival in Los Angeles and Indian Film festival of Melbourne, earning accolades for its compelling narrative and stellar performances across the globe.
In a world where secrets are a currency, even the quietest can be the deadliest. ‘Berlin’ will leave you thinking and questioning … can a deaf and mute individual be a spy?
Aparshakti Khurana, who plays the sign language expert, shared his thoughts on the project. He said, “Berlin is a film with which I am emotionally connected as it really brought out the best in me. Atul Sabharwal pulled me out of my comfort zone and threw me in such a challenging world. It’s like being the wildcard in a high-stakes poker game where every player holds a secret. Trust me, this isn’t your typical binge-watch – it’s a mind-bending puzzle that’ll have you playing detective from your couch. It’s a character and a role I have never explored before… so, get ready for a surprise. ‘Berlin’ is where the laughs stop, and the intensity begins.”
Ishwak Singh, who portrays the deaf-mute character, shared his experience, “From the word go I knew this was a special film. I found the character and the story very intriguing and much like the plot it was a mystery how I would crack it. I trusted my instincts and believed in Atul Sabharwal’s vision and things just fell in place.
Playing Ashok who is deaf has without a doubt been the most challenging character I’ve ever played. I had to be fluent in sign language and comfortable enough with it so I naturally go for signing and not speak while performing the scenes. The deaf community takes pride in sign language and doesn’t see it as a handicap. That also had to come through.”
He added, “The whole experience has been extremely rewarding and I’m thrilled that the film is finally releasing. A big reason why this film is special is also because of the incredible cast. Aparshakti, Rahul Bose and Anupriya and Mr Kabir Bedi are all so wonderful.”
Rahul Bose, who portrays the determined intelligence officer stated, “Berlin’ is one of those rare projects that challenge not just your skills but your perspective on storytelling. My character’s journey is layered with tension, secrets, and the constant battle between survival and truth. It’s a narrative designed to keep viewers guessing as to where the truth lies. Working alongside such a talented ensemble cast was a genuine pleasure, and I am curious to see how audiences react as they dive into this complex world of espionage on ZEE5 Global.”
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/PxOtO3rN6h0