Raid 2 Movie Review: Ajay Devgn Reprises His Role In A Sharper, Stronger Sequel That Leaves The Original Behind

• Director: Raj Kumar Gupta
• Star Cast: Amit Sial, Saurabh Shukla, Vaani Kapoor, Riteish Deshmukh, Ajay Devgn
  
• Thunderbolts Movie Review Rating: 4.5 stars****
• Runtime: 139 minutes
• Available On: Cinemas
• Language: Hindi
• Watch or Not?: Yes!
• What’s Bad: The movie struggles to excite with its dull action and unsatisfying wrap-up, acting more as a placeholder for future developments than a story that stands tall on its own.
• What’s Good: Their dynamic clicks impressively well, often sparking memories of the bond shared by the original Avengers squad

The script balances action and emotional moments, focusing on redemption and trauma. Though the plot follows familiar Marvel themes, it ensures the characters are developed, making the stakes more personal.

Raid 2 brings back Amey Patnaik (Ajay Devgn), the Indian Revenue Service officer known for his uncompromising approach toward tax defaulters, now with his 75th transfer.

This time, the plot adds two twists: first, he compromises his pristine reputation by accepting a bribe of 2 crores from a defaulter (Govind Namdeo), and second, his wife, Malini (Vaani Kapoor), plays a critical role in exposing the new antagonist.

The villain in Raid 2 is Manohar Sarang, or Dada Bhai (Riteish Deshmukh), who is idolized by the public as a hero and almost a demi-god.

Starting out as a humble cobbler, Dada Bhai has now established a “Foundation” in his father’s name, claiming to address all types of social and charitable needs. He reveres his mother, Amma (Supriya Pathak Kapur), above all, even placing her on a pedestal higher than the divine.

In a narrative like this, the layers and twists unfold rapidly, almost like cartwheels spinning out of control. The sequel’s sharpness is enhanced by the return of Tauji (Saurabh Shukla), the villain from the original film.

Although he’s still in jail, he keeps a close watch on Amey with a combination of reluctant respect and a humorous, whimsical touch. It’s, by far, the best comic performance of the year!

Gradually, Amey dismantles Dada Bhai’s murky world and uncovers the vast black money, getting aid from both anticipated and unexpected sources. As previously mentioned, his devoted wife remains steadfast in her support.

Raid 2 Movie Review: Analysis of Script

Ritesh Shah, known for his work on the original Raid which blended real-life income-tax officers’ stories into Amey Patnaik’s character, joins forces with director Akshat Tiwari, Karan Vyas, Jaideep Yadav, Raj Kumar Gupta, for a script that feels entirely fictional yet irresistibly engaging as the story unfolds.

With standout one-liners such as Amey’s, “Maine kab kahaa ke main paandav hoon? Main to poori Mahabarat hoon!” the film provides several intense moments that make for an engaging watch.

The scene where Dada Bhai introduces Amey to his mother and Lallan Sudheer’s (Amit Sial) witty remarks about being “open” to financial negotiations with Dada Bhai are expertly written and highlight the film’s strong dialogue.

The dramatic finale adds the final flourish to this grand and captivating entertainment extravaganza, making it even more satisfying.

Raid 2 Movie Review: Star Performance

With a masterful portrayal of Amey Naik, Ajay Devgn blends subtlety with strength, his piercing gaze and sardonic smiles revealing a depth of character.

Vaani Kapoor shines in the understated role of Malini, while Riteish Deshmukh perfectly balances the icy demeanour of Dada Bhai with his heartfelt devotion to his mother.

Amit Sial and Saurabh Shukla bring their characters, Lallan and Tauji, to life with incredible finesse. Supriya Pathak Kapur’s portrayal of Amma adds a new layer to the traditional mother role, making it feel real and grounded.

As Geeta, Amey’s loyal aide, Shruti Pandey shines, with another unnamed officer matching her effectiveness. Brijendra Kala and Mukesh Tiwari continue their dependable performances, while Rajat Kapur brings a strong presence as Amey’s boss.

Raid 2 Movie Review: Music & Direction

Raj Kumar Gupta has matured into a director capable of merging commercial sensibilities with realism, evident in films like No One Killed Jessica and Raid. His latest cinematic endeavor showcases his evolution.

It’s rare to see a director successfully move into mainstream cinema without overdoing it or missing the mark. His ability to direct sweeping sequences, paired with the exceptional cinematography by Sudhir K. Chaudhary, is a standout achievement.

The soundtrack is a mix of hits and misses, with Nasha by Sachin-Jigar being a standout track. Money, Money is average, and the Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan re-creation is fairly standard. On the other hand, Amit Trivedi’s background score is brilliantly executed.

Raid 2 Movie Review: Final Words

It’s a rare feat for sequels to top their originals, but this one does it without breaking a sweat. Don’t even think about skipping it! Amey Patnaik is back, and Raid 3 can’t come soon enough!

Raid 2 Trailer

Also Read: Thunderbolts Movie Review: Marvel’s Fresh Direction Brings Energy, But Leaves You Wanting More

Manoj Patel

Manoj Patel is a senior video journalist who has a degree in Mass Communication. He has a rich experience in editing videos and writing stories on different platforms.