‘Kabul Express’ presents a dry, sardonic view of the world after 9/11, centering on two Indian journalists, John and Arshad. They face the harsh realities of war, accompanied by co-travelers from Pakistan and Afghanistan, whose presence creates a tense atmosphere. Kabir Khan’s direction uses the Afghan landscape to both frame the human interactions and drive the plot forward. The film serves as a tribute to resilience while subtly commenting on the relationships between nations. The portrayal of Pakistan is particularly critical, offering a contrasting perspective to common cinematic depictions of the region. The film offers moments of levity, such as Warsi’s rendition of a classic song. The American journalist’s cynical remarks about the local food underscore the film’s overall tone. Kabir Khan shares that the film remains special for him due to its critical acclaim and its enduring relevance. He also acknowledges the support of the cast and producer, who stood by him during production amid adversity.
