“Khufiya,” featuring Tabu and Ali Fazal, delves into the intricate lives of spies.
This Netflix debut marks the first collaboration between master filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj and the streaming platform. Adapted from the novel “Escape To Nowhere” by Amar Bhushan, the former chief of counter-espionage at India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), the film navigates the complex dual existence of spies, a subject Bhardwaj has a knack for adapting into compelling cinema.
The narrative centers on the agents themselves, with Tabu portraying a RAW agent tasked with uncovering a mole within the intelligence agency. Her character is a departure from her previous roles, requiring her to stretch her acting abilities to the limit. Balancing her demanding job and her role as a mother, Tabu skillfully conveys the character’s genuine emotions. “Khufiya” weaves a gripping tale of suspense and complexity.
The film expertly explores the multifaceted layers and intricacies of each character. In reality, individuals are rarely purely good or bad, and Bhardwaj has masterfully depicted the various shades of each character.
Tabu’s character grapples with confused sexuality and the reasons behind her divorce, which are sensitively portrayed. She refrains from placing blame on her husband (Atul Kulkarni) for their relationship’s breakdown, describing him as a “good man.” The film delves into the emotional tug-of-war when her son inquires about the reasons for her divorce and her profession. Tabu skillfully conveys the weariness and stress in her character’s life through her effortless expressions. Her role carries depth and nuance as she seeks justice for her partner’s death. Bhardwaj handles the LGBTQ angle with maturity and sensitivity in “Khufiya.”
The film places significant importance on its female characters, including Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, Bangladeshi actress Azmeri Haque Badhon, and Navindra Behl. Each character possesses layers and depth, not limited to Tabu alone. Azmeri Haque Badhon shines in her role, becoming the showstopper of the film with her brilliant performance, at times overshadowing Tabu when they share the screen.
“Khufiya” takes a critical view of the US intelligence agency. Ali Fazal, who portrays a Delhi-based US agent, is depicted as a devoted family man overshadowed by his powerful mother (Navindra Behl), who possesses intricate knowledge about Indian government workings and the US intelligence agency. The story begins with a desire for a lavish lifestyle, a love for Armani suits, lavish parties, and single malts.
The standout performance in the film comes from Azmeri Haque Badhon, whose brilliant acting effortlessly lights up the screen and at times overshadows even Tabu’s performance when they share scenes.
True to its title, “Khufiya” (meaning “secret” in Urdu) adds an element of secrecy to Tabu’s character. While she and her ex-husband are comfortable with her sexuality, she chooses not to disclose it to the world, including her son. The film concludes with her making an effort to reveal her true identity to her son, but that moment remains a secret as the movie ends shortly thereafter.
