Ajay Devgn returns as IRS officer Amay Patnaik in Raid 2, and from the get-go, it feels like déjà vu. The tone, pacing, and setup mirror Raid 1 — almost too closely. But where the original dived right into the action, this sequel takes its sweet time. The first 30 minutes move sluggishly.
That is, until Saurabh Shukla re-enters as the unforgettable Tauji. His biting dialogue (“Kiski zindagi jhand kar raha hai, Patnaikwa?”) and signature smirk breathe life into every frame he touches. Used sparingly but smartly, he’s the one constant who keeps the viewer engaged when the plot lulls.
The Wife Swap That Makes No Sense
A strange narrative misstep lies in replacing Ileana D’Cruz with Vaani Kapoor as Patnaik’s wife. Since the film is clearly a continuation, the absence of explanation feels off. Vaani tries, but the emotional connect is lost. Off-screen, Ileana did confirm her pregnancy in Feb 2025, which might explain things — but the film offers no answers.
Adding a daughter to Patnaik’s life brings warmth, but also continues a now-familiar Ajay Devgn template. Whether it’s Drishyam, Shaitaan, or this, he’s firmly in “family man with a secret” territory. The roles are blending into each other, and it’s starting to show.
Riteish Deshmukh’s Dark Turn Works—Mostly
Riteish Deshmukh is the surprise package here. As Dada Manohar Bhai, he’s equal parts city messiah and cold-blooded villain. His backstory doesn’t shock, but he gets better as the film heads into the final act. There’s Ek Villain energy here — slick and unsettling.
What doesn’t work at all is Tamannaah Bhatia’s item number. Known for her dance numbers more than her films, this one feels dropped in from another universe. It’s flat, forced, and does nothing for the story. It’s the kind of “commercial” moment that derails the mood entirely.
Yashpal Sharma Shines Without Noise
While the big names do their thing, it’s Yashpal Sharma who quietly impresses. He brings a calm intensity to the screen, making even small scenes feel grounded. In a film filled with loud moments, he’s the one who feels real — and that counts.
Once the second half kicks in, Raid 2 finds its rhythm. The strategy unfolds, the plot thickens, and Ajay Devgn gets to do what he does best — take calculated revenge with minimal dialogue. It’s here the film earns its place as a decent, if not outstanding, sequel.
Despite a few potholes, Raid 2 delivers enough firepower in the end. Saurabh Shukla steals scenes, Riteish intrigues, and Ajay remains solid in a role he’s too comfortable with by now. It may not raid your heart like the original, but it’s worth a watch.
Rating: 3.7/5
