Ajay Devgn Returns As IRS Officer In Raid 2, Hitting Theatres Today
Raid 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2018 blockbuster Raid, has finally hit theatres on May 1, 2025, coinciding with International Labour Day. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, this film brings back Ajay Devgn as the fearless IRS officer Amay Patnaik, who is now on a mission to confront a new and powerful antagonist, Dada Manohar Bhai, played by Riteish Deshmukh. The film has generated significant buzz and mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
With a production budget of approximately ₹40 crore, Raid 2 aims to build on the success of its predecessor, which grossed over ₹153 crore worldwide. The film's release was highly anticipated, especially after facing multiple delays since its announcement in 2020. Originally slated for a November 2024 release, fans were eager for the film's arrival.
In terms of cast, Ajay Devgn reprises his role as Amay Patnaik, while Riteish Deshmukh takes on the role of Dada Manohar Bhai, marking a significant shift from his usual comedic roles. Vaani Kapoor joins the cast as Malini Patnaik, Amay's wife, replacing Ileana D’Cruz from the first installment. Other notable cast members include Rajat Kapoor, Saurabh Shukla, Supriya Pathak, and Amit Sial.
The film's soundtrack features contributions from well-known artists including Yo Yo Honey Singh, Amit Trivedi, Rochak Kohli, and Sachet–Parampara, while the background score is also composed by Amit Trivedi.
As the film unfolds, it follows Amay Patnaik's 75th raid, where he uncovers the corrupt practices of Dada Manohar Bhai, a politician who initially appears to be benevolent. The narrative aims to create a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between Patnaik and Bhai, showcasing intense confrontations that have been highlighted in early reviews.
Initial box office numbers indicate a strong start, with advance bookings exceeding ₹10 crore. However, the film's critical reception has been mixed. Many viewers praised the gripping second half of the film, particularly the performances of Devgn and Deshmukh, with the latter's portrayal of a corrupt politician receiving special mention. Critics have described Deshmukh's performance as a "masterclass" in acting, contrasting sharply with some viewers' disappointment in the film's first half, which they felt was marred by unnecessary songs and a convoluted narrative.
Despite the mixed reviews, the film's star power and the anticipation surrounding it are expected to drive ticket sales. The reactions on social media have been varied; while some viewers have declared it a "blockbuster," others have expressed disappointment, questioning the need for a sequel and criticizing its pacing and execution.
Industry experts believe that Raid 2 has the potential to perform well at the box office, especially given Ajay Devgn's mass appeal and the novelty of Deshmukh in a villainous role. The film's long-term success will depend on whether positive word-of-mouth can outweigh the negative critiques.
For those who prefer to watch from home, Raid 2 is set to make its digital debut on Netflix approximately eight weeks after its theatrical release, expected in late June or early July 2025. This move is anticipated to attract a wider audience and offer fans a chance to experience the film at their convenience.
As the film continues to garner attention, questions arise about the future of the Raid franchise. Producers have confirmed that discussions for a potential Raid 3 are already underway, indicating that the story of Amay Patnaik may not be over just yet.
In summary, Raid 2 promises to deliver an action-packed experience with strong performances, even as it grapples with mixed critical reception. Whether it can match the success of its predecessor remains to be seen, but for fans of the franchise, the film offers an intriguing continuation of the story.
Raid 2 is now showing in theatres, and for those who missed it, keep an eye out for its upcoming Netflix release!
