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{{short description|2019 Indian Hindi-language action thriller film}}
{{short description|2019 Indian Hindi-language spy thriller film}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2022}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2019}}
{{Infobox film
{{Infobox film
| name          = Romeo Akbar Walter
| name          = Romeo Akbar Walter
| image          = Romeo Akbar Walter poster.jpg
| image          = Romeo Akbar Walter poster.jpg
| caption        = Poster
| caption        = Theatrical release poster
| director      = Robbie Grewal
| director      = Robbie Grewal
| producer      = {{ubl||Dheeraj Wadhawan|Ajay Kapoor|Vanessa Walia|Gary Grewal|Ajit Andhare}}
| producer      = {{ubl||Dheeraj Wadhawan|Ajay Kapoor|Vanessa Walia|Gary Grewal|Ajit Andhare}}
Line 11: Line 11:
| starring      = {{ubl|[[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]]|[[Mouni Roy]]|[[Jackie Shroff]]|[[Sikandar Kher]]}}
| starring      = {{ubl|[[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]]|[[Mouni Roy]]|[[Jackie Shroff]]|[[Sikandar Kher]]}}
| music          = '''Score:'''<br/>[[Amar Mohile]]<br/>[[Hitesh Sonik]]<br/>[[Rochak Kohli]]<br/>[[Clinton Cerejo]]<br/>'''Songs:'''<br/>[[Ankit Tiwari]]<br/>[[Sohail Sen]]<br/>[[Shabbir Ahmed (lyricist)|Shabbir Ahmed]]<br/>[[Raaj Aashoo]]
| music          = '''Score:'''<br/>[[Amar Mohile]]<br/>[[Hitesh Sonik]]<br/>[[Rochak Kohli]]<br/>[[Clinton Cerejo]]<br/>'''Songs:'''<br/>[[Ankit Tiwari]]<br/>[[Sohail Sen]]<br/>[[Shabbir Ahmed (lyricist)|Shabbir Ahmed]]<br/>[[Raaj Aashoo]]
| cinematography = Tapan Basu
| cinematography = Tapan Tushar Basu
| editing        = Hemal Kothari
| editing        = Hemal Kothari
| studio        = {{ubl|VA Film Company|[[Viacom18 Studios|Viacom18 Motion Pictures]]|Kyta Productions|Red Ice Productions}}
| studio        = {{ubl|VA Film Company|[[Viacom18 Studios|Viacom18 Motion Pictures]]|Kyta Productions|Red Ice Productions}}
| distributor    = [[Panorama Studios]]
| distributor    = [[Eros International]]
| released      = {{film date|2019|4|5|df=yes}}
| released      = {{film date|2019|4|5|df=yes}}
| runtime        = 139 minutes<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/romeo-akbar-walter-2019 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter (2019) |publisher=British Board of Film Classification |language=en|access-date=2 May 2022}}</ref>
| runtime        = 139 minutes<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/romeo-akbar-walter-2019 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter (2019) |publisher=British Board of Film Classification |language=en |access-date=2 May 2019 |archive-date=3 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403174957/http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/romeo-akbar-walter-2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| country        = India
| country        = India
| language      = Hindi
| language      = Hindi
| budget        = {{INR}}35–48 crore<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.zeebiz.com/india/news-romeo-akbar-walter-box-office-collection-day-1-john-abraham-starrer-gets-moderate-opening-may-earn-rs-5-crore-93153 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter box office collection day 1: John Abraham starrer gets moderate opening, May earn Rs 5 crore |publisher=Zeebiz |accessdate=5 April 2019 |date=5 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=5635/ |title=Romeo Akbar Walter |publisher=Box Office India}}</ref>
| budget        = {{INR}}35 crore
| gross          = {{estimation}} {{INR}}53.48 crore<ref name="rawgross">{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/romeo-akbar-walter/box-office/ |title=Romeo Akbar Walter |publisher=Bollywood Hungama |accessdate=18 May 2022}}</ref>
| gross          = {{estimation}} {{INR}}53.48 crore<ref>{{Cite web|title=Romeo Akbar Walter Box Office Collection|website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/romeo-akbar-walter/box-office/|access-date=25 March 2026}}</ref>
}}
}}


'''''Romeo Akbar Walter''''' ({{abbr|'''RAW'''}}; alluding the [[Research and Analysis Wing]]) is a 2019 Indian [[Hindi]]-language [[action thriller film]]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.mid-day.com/articles/john-abrahams-next-film-to-be-action-thriller-raw-romeo-akbar-walter/20502958 |title=John Abraham's next film to be action thriller RAW: Romeo Akbar Walter |publisher=[[Mid-Day]] |date=3 March 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/mail-today/story/-original-stories-attract-audience-1494519-2019-04-05 |title=Original stories attract audience |publisher=[[India Today]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/john-abraham-on-romeo-akbar-walter-id-like-to-do-patriotic-movies-but-wont-make-jingoistic-films-6191891.html |title=John Abraham on Romeo Akbar Walter: I'd like to do patriotic movies but won't make jingoistic films |date=4 March 2019 |publisher=[[Firstpost]]}}</ref> written and directed by Robbie Grewal. It stars [[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]], [[Mouni Roy]], [[Jackie Shroff]] and [[Sikandar Kher]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/romeo-akbar-walter-john-abraham-takes-raw-kashmir-along-jackie-shroff/ |title=RAW-Romeo Akbar Walter: John Abraham takes RAW to Kashmir along with Jackie Shroff |publisher=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=14 August 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://in.bookmyshow.com/movies/romeo-akbar-walter/ET00055220/ |title=RAW-Romeo Akbar Walter |website=BookMyShow}}</ref> The narrative centers on a banker who is recruited as a spy for the [[Research and Analysis Wing]] (R&AW or RAW) for an undercover operation in Pakistan, where he faces both physical and emotional challenges. The film was inspired by the life of Indian spy [[Ravindra Kaushik]] and theatrically released on 5 April 2019.
'''''Romeo Akbar Walter''''' (alluding to the [[Research & Analysis Wing]]) is a 2019 Indian [[Hindi]]-language [[Spy film|spy]] [[action-thriller film]] written and directed by Robbie Grewal. Inspired by the life of Indian spy [[Ravindra Kaushik]], the film stars [[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]], [[Mouni Roy]], [[Jackie Shroff]], and [[Sikandar Kher]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/romeo-akbar-walter-john-abraham-takes-raw-kashmir-along-jackie-shroff/ |title=RAW-Romeo Akbar Walter: John Abraham takes RAW to Kashmir along with Jackie Shroff |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=14 August 2018 |access-date=3 July 2023 |archive-date=26 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230426155943/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/romeo-akbar-walter-john-abraham-takes-raw-kashmir-along-jackie-shroff/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The narrative centers on a banker who is recruited as a spy for the [[Research & Analysis Wing]] for an undercover operation in [[Pakistan]], where he faces both physical and emotional challenges.
 
''Romeo Akbar Walter'' was theatrically released on 5 April 2019, and received mixed reviews from critics.


==Plot==
==Plot==
In November 1971, at [[Inter-Services Intelligence|ISI]] detention cell, [[Karachi]], a man is being given the 3rd degree of torture. The movie then goes 9 months back.
In November 1971, an unidentified man is subjected to torture in an ISI detention cell in [[Karachi]]. The narrative then shifts to events nine months earlier.
 
Shrikant Rai, chief of [[Research & Analysis Wing|RAW]], recruits Rehamatullah Ali, a bank employee, after he successfully thwarts a staged robbery designed to assess his aptitude for [[espionage]]. Following training in combat and covert communication, Rehamatullah is sent to Pakistan under the alias Akbar Malik.
 
In [[Pakistan]], Akbar infiltrates a network connected to the influential Isaq Afridi, gradually earning his trust with the help of local informants, Joker and Mudassar. He strengthens his position by demonstrating hostility toward India and by saving Afridi from an attack orchestrated by Nawab Afridi. During this time, Akbar relays intelligence to RAW about a planned attack on the village of Badlipur that could result in heavy civilian casualties.


In 1971, Shrikant Rai, the Chief of the [[Research and Analysis Wing|RAW]] recruits Rehamatullah Ali a.k.a. Romeo, a banker, after he manages to foil a bank robbery staged by the RAW agents to test his skills for [[espionage]] in Pakistan. After training in combat and covert communication techniques, he departs to Pakistan.
Akbar’s loyalties are tested when Nawab attempts to recruit him. Shortly afterward, he unexpectedly encounters his girlfriend, Shraddha Sharma, who reveals herself to be a RAW agent assigned to assist him. Their reunion is brief, as both remain committed to their respective missions.


In Pakistan, he becomes Akbar Malik, and in his operations is helped by Joker and Mudassar, Pakistani locals helping RAW. Planned circumstances bring him closer to the target Isaq Afridi (Anil George), whose trust in him strengthens when Akbar not only assures him of his hatred towards India but also saves him from an attack conducted by the henchmen of Nawab Afridi. Akbar informs RAW about a planned attack on Badlipur that would claim innocent lives, both in India and [[East Pakistan]]. However, relations between Afridi and Akbar also intensify, due to which he refuses to betray him when Nawab approaches him with an offer to work for him. However, while leaving the rendezvous, Nawab forgets an envelope and asks Akbar to deliver it to the described room number. He is surprised to find his girlfriend Shraddha Sharma there and exclaims "You?" in disbelief. She gestures him to keep quiet and opens up a telephone receiver to show a spy transmitter inside it, proving that her room was bugged. She reveals that she, too was working for the RAW and was sent there because Akbar wanted someone close to be sent for him.
Suspicion about Akbar’s identity grows within the Pakistani military, particularly with [[Colonel]] Khan, who arrests and interrogates him. Although Akbar is released due to Afridi’s influence, his cover is eventually compromised, forcing him to go on the run. While attempting to escape, he mistakenly shoots and kills Mudassar, who had been aiding him, leaving him emotionally shaken.


In the meanwhile, Colonel Khan's suspicion grows on Akbar, whom he arrests, interrogates, and tortures when he isn't able to extract any information. He is forced to free due to Akbar being Afridi's right hand. However, Akbar's cover soon gets blown, resulting in a chase between him and the colonel. Akbar manages to escape and arrives at home to find Mudassar telling him to escape. Akbar explains that there's no way to escape, due to which Mudassar agrees and goes to prepare tea for him. While waiting, Akbar suspects someone's presence. Hearing a gun clock, he takes out the gun given to him by Mudassar for emergencies, and shoots the person, only to realise it was no one else but Mudassar. Weeping but also remembering the latter's words warning him not to get entangled in relations, he escapes from the scene and the next day, disguised as an army captain, contacts Shrikant for help. The latter declines, telling him that he's not acting like an Indian any more. In the meanwhile, Shraddha and some other RAW agents are arrested while Joker commits suicide. Akbar then meets the army officer who interrogated him and his senior, revealing the truth. He decides to conduct the attacks on Badlipur himself as a form of revenge on the RAW. Accompanied by colonel Khan to avoid any sort of double-crossing, Akbar shocks him by bombing the entire village in a series of explosions, thus confirming his loyalty to Pakistan.
Cut off from support, Akbar contacts Shrikant Rai for extraction but is refused, as Rai believes he is becoming emotionally compromised. Meanwhile, several RAW operatives, including Shraddha, are captured, and Joker dies by suicide.


As a result, the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971|Indo-Pakistani War]] breaks out. Akbar, now a Pakistani officer called Walter Khan, meets Shrikant and Awasthi in Nepal after 10 years. He departs after exchanging a few words and congratulating Awasthi for his impending promotion, leaving the latter surprised. Shrikant then reveals that Walter's still working undercover for India and how the latter's siding with Pakistan was all part of the plan. The bombing didn't cause any deaths as the villagers,  as under the pretext of warning about bad weather conditions, they were moved out 24 hours before it took place. Shrikant also reveals Walter's loyalty towards work was the only reason he couldn't turn up even at his mother's funeral. The film ends with a shot of Walter saluting the Indian flag with tears in his eyes.
Disillusioned, Akbar appears to defect and aligns himself with [[Pakistan Armed Forces|Pakistani forces]]. To prove his loyalty, he personally leads an attack on Badlipur under Colonel Khan’s supervision, destroying the village. This act seemingly confirms his allegiance to Pakistan and contributes to the escalation of hostilities leading to the [[India–Pakistan war of 1971|Indo-Pakistani War of 1971]].
 
Ten years later, Akbar—now known as Walter Khan and serving as a Pakistani officer—meets Shrikant Rai and his colleague Awasthi in [[Nepal]]. After he departs, Rai reveals that Walter never betrayed India; his actions were part of a long-term covert strategy. The evacuation of Badlipur had been arranged in advance, ensuring no civilian casualties.
 
Rai further explains that Walter remained deeply committed to his mission, even at the cost of personal sacrifices, including missing his mother’s funeral. The film concludes with Walter saluting the [[Flag of India|Indian flag]] in private, reflecting his enduring loyalty and the emotional toll of his service.


==Cast==
==Cast==
{{cast listing|
{{cast listing|
*[[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]] in a triple role as Rehamatullah Ali a.k.a. Romeo/Akbar Malik/Walter Khan (based on [[Ravindra Kaushik]])
*[[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]] as [[Ravindra Kaushik|Rehmuthallah "Romeo" Ali aka Akbar Malik aka Walter Khan]]
*[[Mouni Roy]] as Parul/Shraddha Sharma
*[[Mouni Roy]] as Parul / Shraddha Sharma
*[[Jackie Shroff]] as Shrikant Rai, [[R&AW]] chief
*[[Jackie Shroff]] as Shrikant Rai, Chief of R&AW
*[[Rajesh Shringarpure]] as Prasoon Awasthi, [[R&AW]] officer
*Anil George as Isaq Afridi
*[[Raghubir Yadav]] as Mudassar
*[[Raghubir Yadav]] as Mudassar
*[[Mushtaq Kak]] as Joker
*[[Sikandar Kher]] as [[Colonel]] Khan
*Anil George as Isaq Afridi
*[[Alka Amin]] as Waheeda
*[[Sikandar Kher]] as Colonel Khan
*Shivraj Walvekar as Mishra Ji
*Purnendu Bhattacharya as [[General]] Jahangir Alam
*Aashit Chatterjee as [[Lt. General]] Ghazi Ali Hayat
*Gyanendra Tripathi as [[Captain]] Adil
*[[Suchitra Krishnamoorthi]] as Rehana Kazmi
*[[Suchitra Krishnamoorthi]] as Rehana Kazmi
*Purnendu Bhattacharya as General Jahangir Alam, [[Chief of Army Staff (Pakistan)|Chief of Army Staff]]
*Gyanendra Tripathi as Captain Adil
*Sharat Sonu as Robber 1
*[[Alka Amin]] as Waheeda, Rehamatullah's mother
*Vikram Dahiya as Krav Maga Trainer
*[[Sanjeev Jaiswal]] as Deewan
*Shivraj Walvekar as Mishra Ji
*[[Shadaab Khan]] as Nawab Afridi
*[[Shadaab Khan]] as Nawab Afridi
*Aashit Chatterjee as Lt. Gen. Ghazi Ali Hayat, [[Director-General of Inter-Services Intelligence|Director-General of the ISI]]
*[[Rajesh Shringarpure]] as Prasoon Awasthi, Deputy Chief of R&AW
*Pawan Kumar Jagoli as Ratan
*[[Mushtaq Kak]] as Joker
}}
*[[Sanjeev Jaiswal]] as Deewan|url=https://www.twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1114061129985040387 |title=taran adarsh "@taran_adarsh" |date=5 April 2019 |website=Twitter |access-date=22 July 2019 |archive-date=4 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190804020116/https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1114061129985040387 |url-status=live }}


==Production==
== Production ==
Initially, [[Sushant Singh Rajput]] was to star in the film as the protagonist but opted out of it due to his prior commitments.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/heres-why-sushant-singh-rajput-quits-romeo-akbar-walter-1743594 |title=Here's Why Sushant Singh Rajput Quits Romeo Akbar Walter |date=29 August 2017 |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |publisher=[[NDTV]] |accessdate=2 May 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/news/bollywood-news/article/sushant-singh-rajput-romeo-akbar-walter-raw-stepped-down-upcoming-bollywood-film/158562 |title=Sushant Singh Rajput quits RAW, here's what the makers have to say! |date=31 August 2017 |publisher=[[Times Now]] |agency=IANS |accessdate=2 May 2022}}</ref>


== Release ==
=== Casting ===
The film was shot on location in [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]], [[Gujarat]] and [[Nepal]];<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/john-abraham-starrer-romeo-akbar-walter-shot-kashmir/ |title=John Abraham starrer Romeo Akbar Walter to be shot in Kashmir |publisher=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=30 April 2022}}</ref> it was initially scheduled to release on 15 March 2019 but then it was pushed back.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/180918/john-abraham-starrer-romeo-akbar-walter-is-all-set-to-release-on-this.html |title=John Abraham starrer Romeo Akbar Walter is all set to release on this day next year |publisher=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |date=18 September 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.mid-day.com/articles/john-abrahams-romeo-akbar-walter-finally-gets-a-release-date/19813166 |title=John Abraham's Romeo Akbar Walter finally gets a release date |publisher=[[Mid-Day]] |date=18 September 2022}}</ref> It was scheduled to release worldwide on 12 April 2019 but later released on 5 April 2019.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/romeo-akbar-walter-teaser-on-republic-day-eve-john-abraham-offers-another-patriotic-treat-watch-video/story-EOlTIZ1MpbvCk6X6OCnvzO.html |title=Romeo Akbar Walter teaser: On Republic Day eve, John Abraham offers another patriotic treat. Watch video |publisher=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=25 January 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/romeo-akbar-walter-teaser-out-john-abraham-has-a-republic-day-treat-for-fans-1439747-2019-01-26 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter teaser out: John Abraham has a Republic Day treat for fans |publisher=[[India Today]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/news/bollywood-news/article/romeo-akbar-walter-teaser-john-abrahams-different-faces-make-the-film-look-like-a-promising-one/353932 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter teaser: John Abraham's different 'faces' make the film look like a promising one |publisher=[[Times Now]]}}</ref>
[[Sushant Singh Rajput]] was originally cast in the lead role and even appeared in the film’s first look. However, he later withdrew due to scheduling conflicts and was subsequently replaced by [[John Abraham]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2017-08-30 |title=Sushant Singh Rajput drops out of ‘Romeo Akbar Walter’, returns Rs 4 crore signing fee |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/sushant-singh-rajput-drops-out-of-romeo-akbar-walter-returns-rs-4-crore-signing-fee/articleshow/60276114.cms |access-date=2026-03-25 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>


==Home media==
=== Filming ===
The film became available as [[Video on demand|VOD]] on [[Netflix]] on 30 June 2019.<ref>{{cite web |title=Romeo Akbar Walter |url=https://www.netflix.com/title/81039384?s=a&trkid=13747225&t=more |website=Netflix |date=June 2019 |accessdate=30 June 2022}}</ref>
[[Principal photography]] took place across 14 cities in India and [[Nepal]], with significant portions shot in [[Gujarat]], to replicate 1970s Pakistan and India, and [[Kashmir]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-04-04 |title=RAW shot in 100 locations across India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/raw-shot-in-100-locations-across-india/articleshow/68715718.cms |access-date=2026-03-25 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>


==Reception==
== Reception ==


===Critical response===
=== Critical response ===
the film received mixed reviews from critics Going by [[Rotten Tomatoes]], the film has scored {{RT data|score}} based on {{RT data|count}} reviews with an average rating of {{RT data|average}}.<ref name="rotten">{{cite web|url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/romeo_akbar_walter|title=Romeo Akbar Walter|website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|publisher=[[Fandango Media|Fandango]]|access-date={{RT data|access date|df=dmy}}}}</ref> Renuka Vyavahare of [[Times Of India]] finds the climax of the film audacious and gives one and half stars out of five. She concludes, "RAW has its moments but is rough around the edges. The climax is audacious and you need to suspend your belief, if you plan to watch it."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Vyavahare |first1=Renuka |title=RAW Movie Review |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/raw/movie-review/68713887.cms |website=Times of India |accessdate=4 April 2022}}</ref> "Overall, Romeo Akbar Walter is another interesting film from John Abraham. The movie has enough twists and turns to keep you intrigued and engaged. Go for it." says Gaurang Chauhan of [[Times Now]] and gives three stars out of five.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chauhan |first1=Gaurang |title=RAW Movie Review: John Abraham starrer is an effective espionage thriller that'll stay with you |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/reviews/movies/article/raw-movie-review-john-abraham-starrer-is-an-highly-effective-espionage-thriller-thatll-stay-with-you/394127 |website=Times Now |publisher=Zoom Entertainment |accessdate=4 April 2022}}</ref> Sanyukta Thakare writing for [[The Free Press Journal]] rates the film with one and a half stars out of five and says, "You would expect RAW to be an action-packed film as much as the trailer suggested, but the film is more of a drama web series that documents events one after the other, throwing in unnecessary emotional, romantic and climax more than it is required."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Thakare |first1=Sanyukta |title=Romeo Akbar Walter Movie Review: John Abraham starrer can put you to sleep; needs more than just changing length of his beard |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-movie-review-john-abraham-starrer-can-put-you-to-sleep-needs-more-than-just-changing-length-of-his-beard/1496681 |website=The Free Press Journal |accessdate=4 April 2022}}</ref> Devesh Sharma of [[Filmfare]] giving 3 stars out of 5 says, "Watching the film is like akin to reading a [[John le Carré]] novel. You have one set of mandarins squaring off against the other with pawns being sacrificed for future advantage."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.filmfare.com/reviews/bollywood-movies/movie-review-romeo-akbar-walter-33107.html |website=Filmfare |title=Movie Review: Romeo Akbar Walter |date=4 April 2019|access-date=4 April 2019 |first=Devesh |last=Sharma}}</ref> [[Taran Adarsh]] gives 1.5 stars out of 5 says "Dull. Interesting stories don't necessarily translate into interesting films. Half baked writing + slow pacing play spoilsport. John, Jackie Shroff and Sikandar Kher excel. This thriller lacks thrill and grip."<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1114061129985040387 |title=taran adarsh "@taran_adarsh" |date=5 April 2019 |website=Twitter}}</ref>
Saibal Chatterjee of ''[[NDTV]]'' gave 2 out of 5 stars, calling it too much of a burden for John Abraham to carry.<ref>{{Cite news |title=<I>Romeo Akbar Walter</I> Movie Review: Too Much Of A Burden For John Abraham To Carry |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-movie-review-too-much-of-a-burden-for-john-abraham-to-carry-2-stars-out-of-5-2018221 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250125210448/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-movie-review-too-much-of-a-burden-for-john-abraham-to-carry-2-stars-out-of-5-2018221 |archive-date=25 January 2025 |access-date=25 March 2026 |work=[[NDTV]] |language=en}}</ref> [[Shubhra Gupta]] of the ''[[The Indian Express]]'' gave 2 out of 5 stars, writing "The John Abraham starrer suffers from length, and the pall of dullness that hangs over proceedings. A spy needs to be patriot. That's why he does what he does, knowing thet he is 'deniable'.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 April 2019 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter movie review: A drab affair |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/romeo-akbar-walter-movie-review-john-abraham-5660009/ |access-date=25 March 2026 |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en}}</ref> Devansh Sharma of ''[[Firstpost]]'' gave 2.75/5 stars, calling it an inconsistent spy-thriller that suffers from Major Raazi hangover.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 April 2019 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter movie review: John Abraham's inconsistent spy thriller suffers from major Raazi hangover |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-movie-review-john-abrahams-inconsistent-spy-thriller-suffers-from-major-raazi-hangover-6393881.html |access-date=25 March 2026 |website=[[Firstpost]]}}</ref> ''[[The Economic Times]]'' gave 3 out of 5 stars, calling it a "half-baked, spy thriller".<ref>{{Cite news |date=8 April 2019 |title='Romeo Akbar Walter' review: A half-baked, spy thriller |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/romeo-akbar-walter-review-a-half-baked-spy-thriller/articleshow/68772110.cms?from=mdr |access-date=23 March 2026 |work=[[The Economic Times]] |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> Suparna Sharma of ''[[Deccan Chronicle]]'' wrote that "Romeo Akbar Walter is suffused with ardent desh bhakti sentiment, but it’s not offensive. It’s not overtly jingoistic".<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=7 April 2019 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter movie review: Say hello to the world’s slowest double agent |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/070419/romeo-akbar-walter-movie-review-say-hello-to-the-worlds-slowest-do.html |access-date=25 March 2026 |website=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |language=en}}</ref> Udita Jhunjunwala of the [[Mint (newspaper)|''Mint'']] calling it a period film that is high on detail but low on fluency.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jhunjhunwala |first=Udita |date=4 April 2019 |title=RAW - Romeo Akbar Walter review: An undercooked thriller |url=https://www.livemint.com/industry/media/raw-romeo-akbar-walter-review-an-undercooked-thriller-1554365731206.html |access-date=25 March 2026 |website=[[Mint (newspaper)|Mint]] |language=en}}</ref>  


===Box office===
===Box office===
''Romeo Akbar Walter'' collected {{INR|5 [[crore]]}} on its opening day pan India. Its opening weekend collection from the domestic market was {{INR|20.85 crore}}. Its domestic gross was {{INR}}45.84 crore and overseas gross {{INR}}7.64 crore. It grossed {{INR}}53.48 crore worldwide.<ref name="rawgross"/><ref name="boxoffww">{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2019/ |title=Bollywood Top Grossers Worldwide Bollywood Hungama|access-date=18 May 2019 |website=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref>
''Romeo Akbar Walter'' collected {{INR|5 crore}} on its opening day.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-04-06 |title='Romeo Akbar Walter' box-office collection Day 1: John Abraham starrer opens with Rs 5 crore |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/romeo-akbar-walter-box-office-collection-day-1-john-abraham-starrer-opens-with-rs-5-crore/articleshow/68751973.cms |access-date=2026-03-25 |work=[[The Times of India]] |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> In its opening weekend, it collected {{INR|22.70 crore}}.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-04-08 |title=Romeo Akbar Walter box office collection: John Abraham's spy thriller rakes in Rs 22.70 cr in opening weekend |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-box-office-collection-john-abrahams-spy-thriller-rakes-in-rs-22-70-cr-in-opening-weekend-6408741.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20200831063926/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-box-office-collection-john-abrahams-spy-thriller-rakes-in-rs-22-70-cr-in-opening-weekend-6408741.html |archive-date=2020-08-31 |access-date=2026-03-25 |work=Firstpost |language=en-US}}</ref>  


==Soundtrack==
==Music==
{{Infobox album
{{Infobox album
| name        = Romeo Akbar Walter
| name        = Romeo Akbar Walter
Line 83: Line 88:
| cover        =  
| cover        =  
| alt          =  
| alt          =  
| released    = 2 April 2019<ref>{{cite web |url=https://gaana.com/album/romeo-akbar-walter-raw |title=Romeo Akbar Walter – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |publisher=Gaana}}</ref>
| released    = 5 March 2019<ref>{{cite web |url=https://gaana.com/album/romeo-akbar-walter-raw |title=Romeo Akbar Walter – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |publisher=Gaana |access-date=3 April 2019 |archive-date=3 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403103722/https://gaana.com/album/romeo-akbar-walter-raw |url-status=live }}</ref>
| recorded    = 2018
| recorded    = 2018
| venue        =  
| venue        =  
Line 89: Line 94:
| genre        = [[Feature film soundtrack]]
| genre        = [[Feature film soundtrack]]
| length      = 27:12
| length      = 27:12
| language    = [[Hindi]]
| language    = Hindi
| label        = [[Times Music|Junglee Music]]
| label        = [[Times Music|Junglee Music]]
| producer    =  
| producer    =  
Line 96: Line 101:
| next_title  =  
| next_title  =  
| next_year    =  
| next_year    =  
| misc        =
| misc        = {{Extra chronology
{{Extra chronology
  | artist    = [[Ankit Tiwari]]
  | artist    = [[Ankit Tiwari]]
  | type      = soundtrack  
  | type      = soundtrack  
Line 126: Line 130:
}}
}}
}}
}}
The music of the film is composed by [[Ankit Tiwari]], [[Sohail Sen]], [[Shabbir Ahmed (lyricist)|Shabbir Ahmed]] and [[Raaj Aashoo]] while the lyrics are penned by Shabbir Ahmed, Murli Agarwal, [[Prince Dubey]] and Ashok Punjabi.
The music of the film is composed by [[Ankit Tiwari]], [[Sohail Sen]], [[Shabbir Ahmed (lyricist)|Shabbir Ahmed]] and [[Raaj Aashoo]] with lyrics written by Shabbir Ahmed, Murli Agarwal, Prince Dubey and Ashok Punjabi.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-04-04 |title=Music review: Romeo Akbar Walter (RAW) |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/music/music-reviews/music-review-romeo-akbar-walter-raw/articleshow/68630655.cms |access-date=2026-03-25 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> A version of the song "Jee Len De" sung by [[Atif Aslam]] was released on 26 May 2021.
Song "Jee Len De" [[Atif Aslam]] Version is Released in 26 May 2021 On YouTube [[Times Music]] Official Channel


{{Tracklist
{{Tracklist
| headline=Track listing
| headline     = Track listing
| total_length= 27:12
| total_length = 27:12
| extra_column=Singer(s)
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| title1= Vande Mataram
| title1       = Vande Mataram
| extra1= [[Sonu Nigam]], [[Ekta Ajay Kapoor]]
| extra1       = [[Sonu Nigam]], Ekta Kapoor
| music1= [[Shabbir Ahmed (lyricist)|Shabbir Ahmed]]
| music1       = [[Shabbir Ahmed (lyricist)|Shabbir Ahmed]]
| lyrics1= Shabbir Ahmed
| lyrics1       = Shabbir Ahmed
| length1= 4:57
| length1       = 4:57
| title2= Bulleya  
| title2       = Bulleya
| music2= [[Sohail Sen]]
| music2       = [[Sohail Sen]]
| lyrics2= Ashok Punjabi
| lyrics2       = Ashok Punjabi
| extra2= [[Rabbi Shergill]], [[Shahid Mallya]]
| extra2       = [[Rabbi Shergill]], [[Shahid Mallya]]
| length2 = 4:25
| length2       = 4:25
| title3 = Jee Len De
| title3       = Jee Len De
| music3 = [[Raaj Aashoo]]
| music3       = [[Raaj Aashoo]]
| lyrics3 = Murli Agarwal
| lyrics3       = Murli Agarwal
| extra3 = [[Mohit Chauhan]]
| extra3       = [[Mohit Chauhan]]
| length3 = 4:37
| length3       = 4:37
| title4 = Allah Hoo Allah
| title4       = Allah Hoo Allah
| music4 = Shabbir Ahmed  
| music4       = Shabbir Ahmed
| lyrics4 = Shabbir Ahmed
| lyrics4       = Shabbir Ahmed
| extra4 = Sameer Khan, Maneesh Singh, Shreyas Puranik, Jay Mehta, Mayur Sakhare, Tejas Mahure
| extra4       = Sameer Khan, Maneesh Singh, Shreyas Puranik, Jay Mehta, Mayur Sakhare, Tejas Mahure
| length4 = 6:37
| length4       = 6:37
| title5 = Maa
| title5       = Maa
| music5 = Ankit Tiwari
| music5       = Ankit Tiwari
| lyrics5 = [[Prince Dubey]]
| lyrics5       = Prince Dubey
| extra5 = [[Ankit Tiwari]]
| extra5       = [[Ankit Tiwari]]
| length5 = 3:19
| length5       = 3:19
| title6 = Jee Len De (Atif Version)
| title6       = Jee Len De
| music6 = Raaj Aashoo
| music6       = Raaj Aashoo
| lyrics6 = Murli Agarwal
| lyrics6       = Murli Agarwal
| extra6 = [[Atif Aslam]]
| extra6       = [[Atif Aslam]]
| length6 = 4:37
| note6        = Atif Version
| length6       = 4:37
}}
}}


== References ==
== References ==
<!-- Inline citations added to your article will automatically display here. See https://en.bharatdata.org/wiki/WP:REFB for instructions on how to add citations. -->
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{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


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* {{Rotten Tomatoes|m/romeo_akbar_walter}}
* {{Rotten Tomatoes|m/romeo_akbar_walter}}


[[Category:2010s Hindi-language films]]
{{Viacom18 Studios}}
 
[[Category:2019 Hindi-language films]]
[[Category:2019 Indian films]]
[[Category:2010s spy thriller films]]
[[Category:2010s spy thriller films]]
[[Category:2019 action thriller films]]
[[Category:2019 action thriller films]]
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[[Category:Films shot in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Films shot in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Films set in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Films set in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Films about the Research and Analysis Wing]]
[[Category:Films about the Research & Analysis Wing]]
[[Category:Films set in the 1970s]]
[[Category:Films set in the 1970s]]
[[Category:India–Pakistan relations in popular culture]]
[[Category:India–Pakistan relations in popular culture]]
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[[Category:Films set in Gujarat]]
[[Category:Films set in Gujarat]]
[[Category:Films set in East Pakistan]]
[[Category:Films set in East Pakistan]]
[[Category:Films based on Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts]]
[[Category:Films about India–Pakistan wars and conflicts]]
[[Category:Films based on the Bangladesh Liberation War]]
[[Category:Films based on the Bangladesh Liberation War]]
[[Category:Indian Army in films]]
[[Category:Indian Army in films]]
[[Category:Military of Pakistan in films]]
[[Category:Military of Pakistan in films]]
[[Category:Hindi-language action thriller films]]
[[Category:Secret histories]]

Latest revision as of 15:35, 25 March 2026


Romeo Akbar Walter
Theatrical release poster
Directed byRobbie Grewal
Produced by
  • Dheeraj Wadhawan
  • Ajay Kapoor
  • Vanessa Walia
  • Gary Grewal
  • Ajit Andhare
Written by
  • Robbie Grewal
  • Ishraq Eba
  • Shreyansh Pandey
Starring
Music byScore:
Amar Mohile
Hitesh Sonik
Rochak Kohli
Clinton Cerejo
Songs:
Ankit Tiwari
Sohail Sen
Shabbir Ahmed
Raaj Aashoo
CinematographyTapan Tushar Basu
Edited byHemal Kothari
Production
company
Distributed byEros International
Release date
  • 5 April 2019 (2019-04-05)
Running time
139 minutes[1]
CountryIndia
LanguageHindi
Budget₹35 crore
Box officeest. ₹53.48 crore[2]

Romeo Akbar Walter (alluding to the Research & Analysis Wing) is a 2019 Indian Hindi-language spy action-thriller film written and directed by Robbie Grewal. Inspired by the life of Indian spy Ravindra Kaushik, the film stars John Abraham, Mouni Roy, Jackie Shroff, and Sikandar Kher.[3] The narrative centers on a banker who is recruited as a spy for the Research & Analysis Wing for an undercover operation in Pakistan, where he faces both physical and emotional challenges.

Romeo Akbar Walter was theatrically released on 5 April 2019, and received mixed reviews from critics.

Plot[edit | edit source]

In November 1971, an unidentified man is subjected to torture in an ISI detention cell in Karachi. The narrative then shifts to events nine months earlier.

Shrikant Rai, chief of RAW, recruits Rehamatullah Ali, a bank employee, after he successfully thwarts a staged robbery designed to assess his aptitude for espionage. Following training in combat and covert communication, Rehamatullah is sent to Pakistan under the alias Akbar Malik.

In Pakistan, Akbar infiltrates a network connected to the influential Isaq Afridi, gradually earning his trust with the help of local informants, Joker and Mudassar. He strengthens his position by demonstrating hostility toward India and by saving Afridi from an attack orchestrated by Nawab Afridi. During this time, Akbar relays intelligence to RAW about a planned attack on the village of Badlipur that could result in heavy civilian casualties.

Akbar’s loyalties are tested when Nawab attempts to recruit him. Shortly afterward, he unexpectedly encounters his girlfriend, Shraddha Sharma, who reveals herself to be a RAW agent assigned to assist him. Their reunion is brief, as both remain committed to their respective missions.

Suspicion about Akbar’s identity grows within the Pakistani military, particularly with Colonel Khan, who arrests and interrogates him. Although Akbar is released due to Afridi’s influence, his cover is eventually compromised, forcing him to go on the run. While attempting to escape, he mistakenly shoots and kills Mudassar, who had been aiding him, leaving him emotionally shaken.

Cut off from support, Akbar contacts Shrikant Rai for extraction but is refused, as Rai believes he is becoming emotionally compromised. Meanwhile, several RAW operatives, including Shraddha, are captured, and Joker dies by suicide.

Disillusioned, Akbar appears to defect and aligns himself with Pakistani forces. To prove his loyalty, he personally leads an attack on Badlipur under Colonel Khan’s supervision, destroying the village. This act seemingly confirms his allegiance to Pakistan and contributes to the escalation of hostilities leading to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

Ten years later, Akbar—now known as Walter Khan and serving as a Pakistani officer—meets Shrikant Rai and his colleague Awasthi in Nepal. After he departs, Rai reveals that Walter never betrayed India; his actions were part of a long-term covert strategy. The evacuation of Badlipur had been arranged in advance, ensuring no civilian casualties.

Rai further explains that Walter remained deeply committed to his mission, even at the cost of personal sacrifices, including missing his mother’s funeral. The film concludes with Walter saluting the Indian flag in private, reflecting his enduring loyalty and the emotional toll of his service.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Production[edit | edit source]

Casting[edit | edit source]

Sushant Singh Rajput was originally cast in the lead role and even appeared in the film’s first look. However, he later withdrew due to scheduling conflicts and was subsequently replaced by John Abraham.[4]

Filming[edit | edit source]

Principal photography took place across 14 cities in India and Nepal, with significant portions shot in Gujarat, to replicate 1970s Pakistan and India, and Kashmir.[5]

Reception[edit | edit source]

Critical response[edit | edit source]

Saibal Chatterjee of NDTV gave 2 out of 5 stars, calling it too much of a burden for John Abraham to carry.[6] Shubhra Gupta of the The Indian Express gave 2 out of 5 stars, writing "The John Abraham starrer suffers from length, and the pall of dullness that hangs over proceedings. A spy needs to be patriot. That's why he does what he does, knowing thet he is 'deniable'.[7] Devansh Sharma of Firstpost gave 2.75/5 stars, calling it an inconsistent spy-thriller that suffers from Major Raazi hangover.[8] The Economic Times gave 3 out of 5 stars, calling it a "half-baked, spy thriller".[9] Suparna Sharma of Deccan Chronicle wrote that "Romeo Akbar Walter is suffused with ardent desh bhakti sentiment, but it’s not offensive. It’s not overtly jingoistic".[10] Udita Jhunjunwala of the Mint calling it a period film that is high on detail but low on fluency.[11]

Box office[edit | edit source]

Romeo Akbar Walter collected ₹5 crore on its opening day.[12] In its opening weekend, it collected ₹22.70 crore.[13]

Music[edit | edit source]

Romeo Akbar Walter
Soundtrack album by
Ankit Tiwari, Sohail Sen, Shabbir Ahmed and Raaj Aashoo
Released5 March 2019[14]
Recorded2018
GenreFeature film soundtrack
Length27:12
LanguageHindi
LabelJunglee Music
Ankit Tiwari chronology
Amavas
(2019) 		Romeo Akbar Walter
(2019) 		Batla House
(2019)
Sohail Sen chronology
Fraud Saiyaan
(2019) 		Romeo Akbar Walter
(2019) 		Housefull 4
(2019)
Raaj Aashoo chronology
Hum Chaar
(2019) 		Romeo Akbar Walter
(2019)

The music of the film is composed by Ankit Tiwari, Sohail Sen, Shabbir Ahmed and Raaj Aashoo with lyrics written by Shabbir Ahmed, Murli Agarwal, Prince Dubey and Ashok Punjabi.[15] A version of the song "Jee Len De" sung by Atif Aslam was released on 26 May 2021.

Track listing
No. TitleSinger(s) Length
1. "Vande Mataram"  Sonu Nigam, Ekta Kapoor 4:57
2. "Bulleya"  Rabbi Shergill, Shahid Mallya 4:25
3. "Jee Len De"  Mohit Chauhan 4:37
4. "Allah Hoo Allah"  Sameer Khan, Maneesh Singh, Shreyas Puranik, Jay Mehta, Mayur Sakhare, Tejas Mahure 6:37
5. "Maa"  Ankit Tiwari 3:19
6. "Jee Len De" (Atif Version)Atif Aslam 4:37
Total length:
 27:12

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter (2019)". British Board of Film Classification. Archived from the original on 3 April 2019. Retrieved 2 May 2019.
  2. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter Box Office Collection". Bollywood Hungama. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  3. ↑ "RAW-Romeo Akbar Walter: John Abraham takes RAW to Kashmir along with Jackie Shroff". Bollywood Hungama. 14 August 2018. Archived from the original on 26 April 2023. Retrieved 3 July 2023.
  4. ↑ "Sushant Singh Rajput drops out of 'Romeo Akbar Walter', returns Rs 4 crore signing fee". The Times of India. 30 August 2017. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  5. ↑ "RAW shot in 100 locations across India". The Times of India. 4 April 2019. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  6. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter Movie Review: Too Much Of A Burden For John Abraham To Carry". NDTV. Archived from the original on 25 January 2025. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  7. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter movie review: A drab affair". The Indian Express. 5 April 2019. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  8. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter movie review: John Abraham's inconsistent spy thriller suffers from major Raazi hangover". Firstpost. 5 April 2019. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  9. ↑ "'Romeo Akbar Walter' review: A half-baked, spy thriller". The Economic Times. 8 April 2019. ISSN 0013-0389. Retrieved 23 March 2026.
  10. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter movie review: Say hello to the world’s slowest double agent". Deccan Chronicle. 7 April 2019. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  11. ↑ Jhunjhunwala, Udita (4 April 2019). "RAW - Romeo Akbar Walter review: An undercooked thriller". Mint. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  12. ↑ "'Romeo Akbar Walter' box-office collection Day 1: John Abraham starrer opens with Rs 5 crore". The Times of India. 6 April 2019. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  13. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter box office collection: John Abraham's spy thriller rakes in Rs 22.70 cr in opening weekend". Firstpost. 8 April 2019. Archived from the original on 31 August 2020. Retrieved 25 March 2026.
  14. ↑ "Romeo Akbar Walter – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack". Gaana. Archived from the original on 3 April 2019. Retrieved 3 April 2019.
  15. ↑ "Music review: Romeo Akbar Walter (RAW)". The Times of India. 4 April 2019. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 25 March 2026.

External links[edit | edit source]

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