Raid 2 Movie Review: Ajay Devgn & Riteish Deshmukh Lead a Mixed Bag of a Thriller

 

Raid 2 Movie Review: Ajay Devgn & Riteish Deshmukh Lead a Mixed Bag of a Thriller

Raid 2 brings back Ajay Devgn in the role of Amay Patnaik, with Riteish Deshmukh stepping in as a formidable new antagonist. The film has generated a fair amount of buzz thanks to its powerhouse cast and the legacy of the original Raid (2018). But does it live up to expectations? Here's a look at what critics are saying.

Averages and Overview

• Average Rating: 2.88/5
• Score: 71% Positive

What Works

Several critics have praised the gripping cat-and-mouse narrative, especially in the film’s latter half. Taran Adarsh called it “sharp, edgy, and engaging,” citing strong performances and impactful dialogues as standout elements. Ganesh from Firstpost echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the film’s ability to keep viewers at the edge of their seats with smart twists and emotional highs.

The chemistry and rivalry between Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh has also received applause. According to News18, their intense interactions drive the core of the story, making the film compelling even in its slower parts.

Ajay Devgn’s stoic, old-school heroism remains a hit among critics. Times of India noted his presence adds depth, even if the story sometimes feels familiar. Additionally, the film’s music and background score by Amit Trivedi and Amar Mohile add intensity to the narrative, amplifying dramatic scenes effectively.

What Doesn’t Work

Not all reviews were glowing. Saibal Chatterjee of NDTV found the film to be a pale shadow of its predecessor, calling it “hum without the zing.” Others, like Shubhra Gupta from Indian Express, criticized the film’s repetitiveness and lack of innovation, stating it gets bogged down by predictability and formulaic execution.

India Today also pointed out that while the climax offers some payoff, the film often feels undercooked, lacking the depth and polish needed to truly elevate it as a worthy sequel.

Final Verdict

Raid 2 offers a mix of high-intensity drama, strong lead performances, and a serviceable story, but it struggles to reach the excellence of the original. While the second half redeems much of the film’s slower start, some viewers may feel it plays too safely within the franchise's formula.

If you're a fan of political thrillers, Ajay Devgn’s intense presence, or enjoyed the original Raid, this sequel is worth a watch—though manage your expectations.

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