Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh's much-anticipated sequel, Raid 2, hit theaters on May 1, 2025, and has already generated significant buzz among audiences and critics alike. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the film revisits the story of IRS DCP Amay Patnaik, played by Devgn, who takes on the corrupt political landscape of Bhoj, a fictional town ruled by the charismatic yet duplicitous Dada Manohar Bhai, portrayed by Deshmukh.
Seven years after the original Raid, Amay Patnaik returns, this time facing accusations of corruption himself, which leads to his transfer to Bhoj. Here, he confronts Dada Bhai, a local politician adored by the masses but suspected of harboring dark secrets. The film is loosely based on real-life events from the 1980s and aims to delve into the murky waters of corruption and power.
The film’s early reviews have been mixed, with some praising its gripping narrative and strong performances, while others criticize it for a lack of originality and depth. According to early Twitter reviews, fans have labeled Raid 2 as "gripping" and "sharp," with comments like "#OneWordReview… #Raid2: GRIPPING" circulating on social media.
Devgn's portrayal of Amay Patnaik has been noted for its intensity, though some critics argue that his character feels underdeveloped. As one reviewer stated, "In Raid 2, you never get to meet Amay Patnaik, the honest income tax officer, because Ajay Devgn never gives in to the character." This sentiment highlights a recurring critique that Devgn's star power sometimes overshadows the character he portrays.
Deshmukh's performance as Dada Bhai has received a mix of accolades and critique. While some praise his ability to balance charm and menace, others feel that the character lacks the depth needed to be a truly formidable antagonist. Critics have remarked that while Deshmukh brings a certain flair to his role, the writing fails to fully realize his potential as a villain.
Vaani Kapoor joins the cast as Amay’s supportive wife, Malini. Critics noted that her role, while slightly more substantial than that of Ileana D’Cruz in the first film, still lacks depth. The film also features Saurabh Shukla reprising his role as Tauji, who adds comic relief amidst the tension.
Despite the mixed reviews, Raid 2 has made an impressive box office debut, with advance bookings reportedly crossing Rs 10 crore ahead of its release. The film is expected to earn between Rs 12-14 crore on its opening day, indicating a strong interest from audiences.
Director Raj Kumar Gupta has expressed his desire to create a sequel that stands on its own while still paying homage to the original. In an interview, he stated, "I agree we took a long time to come up with a sequel but it was important to create a good story and we worked really hard on it." Gupta's commitment to storytelling is evident, although some critics argue that the execution falls short of expectations.
In addition to the film's narrative, the music and background score have also drawn attention. The song "Kamle," composed by Sachet-Parampara, has been highlighted for its vibrant energy and catchy hooks, contributing to the film's overall appeal.
As the film continues to draw audiences into theaters, the ongoing conversation surrounding its strengths and weaknesses reflects a broader discussion about the state of Hindi cinema. Bhushan Kumar, one of the producers, commented on the industry's recovery post-COVID, noting that while many films have struggled, successful releases like Raid 2 signal a positive shift.
Looking ahead, Raid 2 is set to be available on Netflix after its theatrical run, with a digital release expected in late June or early July 2025. This strategy aligns with the current trend of major Hindi films securing streaming deals shortly after their theatrical debuts, ensuring that audiences can access the film from the comfort of their homes.
Overall, while Raid 2 may not fully meet the high expectations set by its predecessor, it offers a blend of action, drama, and social commentary that resonates with many viewers. As audiences continue to flock to theaters, the film's exploration of corruption and morality remains timely and relevant, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of power and integrity in contemporary society.
