Ajay Devgn returns in Raid 2, tackling deeper corruption in this tense political-crime thriller sequel, writes ABHI SINGHAL
The highly anticipated sequel, Raid 2, sees Ajay Devgn return as the formidable IRS officer Amay Patnaik, embarking on another high-stakes mission to unearth illicit wealth. Much like its predecessor, Raid, which starred Devgn alongside Ileana D’Cruz and proved to be a resounding success, this follow-up also stands at par in its execution and has performed commendably at the box office. However, while the original garnered immense praise for its taut narrative and realistic portrayal of an income tax raid, Raid 2 expands its canvas, venturing into a more elaborate, albeit occasionally convoluted, political thriller.
The film, directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, has been released on Netflix and brings a new challenge for Amay Patnaik in the form of Dada Manohar Bhai, a slippery and seemingly benevolent politician portrayed with deceptive charm by Riteish Deshmukh. Vaani Kapoor joins the main cast, and the ensemble is further strengthened by the seasoned presence of Saurabh Shukla, reprising his memorable role, and Supriya Pathak, who delivers an excellent performance, often stealing scenes. The narrative in Raid 2 delves deeper into the systemic rot of political corruption, moving beyond a single mansion filled with hidden cash to an entire town seemingly soaked in secrets. Initially, Raid 2 adopts a slightly unhurried pace, particularly in its first half, which some critics have noted as a drawback. The inclusion of unnecessary songs, featuring Tamannaah Bhatia and Jacqueline Fernandez in item numbers, disrupts the film’s serious tone and continuity. Nevertheless, the second half significantly picks up momentum, infusing the narrative with wit, energy, and thrilling twists that keep the audience engaged. The core strength of the film lies in its gripping story, which, despite occasional predictability, manages to unfold with interesting developments. Ajay Devgn, as Amay Patnaik, delivers another solid and restrained performance. His character is depicted as older, wiser, and more strategic this time, often bending the rulebook to outsmart those who abuse the law.
This subtle shift in his approach distinguishes Raid 2 from the original, elevating the stakes and presenting smarter adversaries. Riteish Deshmukh shines in his role as the antagonist, providing a worthy foil to Devgn’s upright officer. The dynamic between the two leads is a significant highlight, driving much of the film’s tension. The film deserves praise for its political undertones and its ability to maintain tension throughout. It succeeds in rekindling the original’s intensity, even if the plot occasionally feels overly familiar.
Ultimately, Raid 2 offers a watchable experience for fans of crime thrillers and those who enjoyed the first Raid. The movie is a commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2025. While it may not always match the urgency and novelty of its predecessor, it remains an engaging follow-up, bolstered by strong performances and a compelling crusade against corruption.
Watch Card (Show Information)
Screen Title: Raid 2 (Movie)
Platform Available: Netflix
Running Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Genre: Thriller, Drama
Ratings: 3.5/5
