Movie Review: ‘Raid 2’
Ajay Devgn returns as IRS officer Amay Patnaik in ‘Raid 2’ a crime thriller, the sharp and gripping sequel to 2018’s ‘Raid’.
Picking up from where the first film left off, this second chapter sees Patnaik face off against Daya Shankar Manohar, also known as Dada Bhai — a powerful crime lord with political power, played impressively by Riteish Deshmukh. The sequel doesn’t just aim to match the original; it expands the scale and raises the stakes.
Devgn, delivers a steady, composed performance that anchors the film. He plays the role with conviction, letting his silence often speak louder than words. Deshmukh surprises with his role — as a smooth-talking, calculating, and truly dangerous politician, he is convincing in every frame.
Vaani Kapoor, as Malini Patnaik, plays a supportive and sensible wife, adding emotional texture in her limited but meaningful screen time. Rajat Kapoor is believable as Rajiv Singh, Amay’s upright senior officer, while Saurabh Shukla brings nuance to his role as MLA Ajit Pandey, a seasoned politician who knows how to operate in the grey zone.
Director Raj Kumar Gupta once again takes the reins, delivering a story that is cleanly told and well-paced. He avoids unnecessary noise and keeps the focus on tension, character, and story. The film mixes investigation, politics, and emotional beats in a way that stays grounded yet engaging.
On the production front, by T-Series Films and Panorama Studios, the film is well-mounted. The design of the sets — from government offices to political backdrops — feels authentic. Amalendu Chaudhary’s cinematography adds realism, using natural tones and shadows to give scenes weight and urgency. Action sequences are executed crisply without over-relying on effects, staying true to the film’s grounded tone.
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Amit Trivedi’s background score supports the film’s mood well, especially during turning points. His compositions paired with Yo Yo Honey Singh’s more commercial track like “Money Money” and another track in the film “Nasha” provide a contrast — though the latter feel slightly disconnected from the main narrative, they offer a break for mass audiences.
‘Raid 2’ doesn’t try to be flashy.
Instead, it sticks to strong storytelling, powerful performances, and a pace that keeps viewers engaged without overplaying its hand. It’s a worthy follow-up that respects the tone of the original while offering a more ambitious story.
BizAsia Rating: 3.5/5
