Breaking away from his signature high-octane action films, director Rohit Shetty ventures into new territory with a gritty psychological biopic inspired by the life of Rakesh Maria, former Mumbai Police Commissioner. Leading the charge is actor John Abraham, who has officially begun filming for what promises to be one of the most intense roles of his career.
The movie, based on Rakesh Maria’s bestselling autobiography Let Me Say It Now, marks the debut collaboration between John Abraham and Rohit Shetty. Famous for their unique cinematic sensibilities, John’s dark screen presence, and Rohit’s blockbuster expertise, the duo has caused quite a stir within the industry.
From South Mumbai to Studio Sets: A Tale of Two Places
Shooting first began over actual locations in South Mumbai, with the crew shooting scenes of the city’s vibrant urban life. Prominent sites such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Dongri, and the legendary Taj Mahal Palace Hotel play a pivotal role as backdrops, enhancing the film’s realism and lending it a strong sense of history and place. Unit insiders say these scenes were vital to make the film Mumbai-reality based and reflect Maria’s personal and professional life.
Yet, with the monsoon threatening in the air and the necessity for a tamed filming space, the shoot has since moved to Ellora Studios in Mira Road. An intricately crafted police station set has been constructed at the location, where John is currently filming intense interrogation scenes in scheduled cycles. The shift from outdoor chaos to indoor order appears symbolic, reflecting Maria’s own job, too, which swung between public crises and concealed investigations.
Another Cop Movie by Rohit Shetty
Though Rohit Shetty has established a cinematic empire of sorts with his adrenaline-fueled cop universe of Singham, Simmba, and Sooryavanshi, this biopic is different. It’s not about flying cars or large-scale chases. Instead, the film delves deep into the psychological world of Rakesh Maria, a man who confronted some of Mumbai’s most challenging and dangerous chapters, including high-profile terror investigations and criminal interrogations.
“This is not just another cop drama. It’s a gritty procedural that explores the human mind under pressure,” a source close to the production shared. “Rohit is treating this as a character study, something far more nuanced than anything he’s done before.”
Behind the Scenes: Scale and Ambition
The set at Ellora Studios is reportedly buzzing with energy every day, with a crew of 50 to 100 people working tirelessly to bring this vision to life. The focus of the current schedule is on the dramatization of intense interrogation scenes, showcasing Maria’s sharp investigative instincts and calm under fire. As per reports, the film will feature five large-scale action sequences, all slated to be filmed by the end of August.
Post-production will then be underway shortly thereafter, with the movie looking to come out in 2026. The ambition of the project is huge, not only in terms of size but also in the depth and emotional complexity of the narrative as well.
John Abraham Takes on the Role of Rakesh Maria
John Abraham, who has made his career playing tough, brooding types in action movies, finds this role thrilling to evolve with. In a previous interview with Pinkvilla, the actor confirmed his involvement and expressed his admiration for the subject matter.
“The story we’re telling is unbelievable. It’s not just about two people coming together, me and Rohit; it’s about a man whose life has been extraordinary. This subject is a banger; it’ll blow people away,” said John.
His commitment to the role is evident in the way he has immersed himself into Maria’s world, from shooting in real police stations to enacting emotionally charged interrogations. For an actor who has often relied on physical strength to convey intensity, this role demands something more: a quiet, cerebral strength that reflects the real-life challenges Maria faced during his tenure.
What to Expect from the Film
Though the biopic is officially still untitled, its direction and tone are already making waves. The expectation from the fans is that there will be an engaging story that walks the fine line between action, drama, and psychological observation. With Rohit Shetty at the helm and John Abraham giving a powerful performance, the film promises to be a remarkable cinematic journey honoring the legacy it portrays of a renowned officer but also reimagines what a “cop film” can be for Indian cinema.
As the shoot weaves through the Mumbai rains, one thing is for sure: this isn’t your average Rohit Shetty movie. It’s a darker, deeper exploration of the thinking of a man who endured India’s most nightmarish dangers and never flinched.
Release Year: 2026
Director: Rohit Shetty
Lead Actor: John Abraham
Based on Let Me Say It Now by Rakesh Maria
Tune in as the interrogation begins both on-screen and off