The movie is fast moving and full of action. The action actually wins over the weak and unbelievable plot. The editing is so taut, that there is no scope for boredom. Stunts are impressive and the VFX, especially aerial are fairly good. What is refreshing is the absence of the typical Dharma Production song and dance, and unlike many, I feel the music was part of the plot without disrupting the film flow. The stunning visuals of Kashmir and Ladakh are an added attraction, with a great view of Central Delhi. The cinematography is absorbing.
Though most of the story is unbelievable (all MI movie plots are unbelievable) but this movie has many technical suggestions vis-a-vis a hijack, which are perhaps, achievable and therefore, unsettling.
The reason for the rating is the absence and ineffectiveness of the Indian and Pakistani Elite Forces. Unfortunately, because of hyper nationalism, the Pakistani SSG, Black Storks and Maroon Berets who are also well trained and ranked 8th among world elite forces, have been shown to be completely ineffective and even if the character of Arun, played by Siddharth Malhotra is part of something like Special Group (4 Vikas), the character in the second half has been shown to be larger than life and almost "Rambo-like" in the major showdown. Which is unfortunate as the first half actually managed to establish Arun as human and his failures as part of life. Also absent from the showdown are the SPG in charge of Indian PM security. The best parts are the female antagonists vs male fight scenes. The physical action is well choreographed and believable. Alas, the third and last scene of the movie involving the tri-colour smoke grenade is so over the top, visually, that it spoils everything.