Mumbai, May 13, 2025 — Ajay Devgn’s much-anticipated sequel, Raid 2, directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, arrives with high expectations but struggles to recreate the gritty intensity of its 2018 predecessor. Despite Devgn’s commanding screen presence, the film stumbles under the weight of its ambition, sacrificing narrative depth for star-driven spectacle.
Building on the momentum of Raid, which was praised for its tightly woven plot and realistic portrayal of income tax operations, Raid 2 aims to take the stakes higher. However, in doing so, it loses the grounded storytelling that made the original compelling.
Plot Summary and Performances
Raid 2 follows IRS officer Amay Patnaik (Ajay Devgn) as he targets a new political heavyweight entangled in corruption, this time across state lines. The plot draws inspiration from real-life events, but the screenplay leans heavily on formulaic tropes, making it predictable in crucial parts.
Devgn reprises his role with the same intensity, but this time, the focus rarely shifts from him, leaving little room for other characters to shine. His performance is sincere, but the screenplay doesn’t offer the layered complexity his character needs to evolve.
Riteish Deshmukh, cast as the formidable antagonist, delivers a commendable performance, but his arc is underwritten. Ileana D’Cruz, returning as Patnaik’s wife, remains sidelined, echoing the film’s broader issue of weak supporting characters.
Direction and Cinematic Execution
Director Raj Kumar Gupta, known for his flair in blending realism with drama, opts for a more commercial approach in Raid 2. The film is filled with stylized confrontations, dramatic monologues, and slow-motion sequences, diluting the authenticity that once defined the franchise.
The film’s runtime of 144 minutes feels stretched, especially in the second half. The courtroom and investigation scenes, once tense and engaging, are now replaced by action-heavy sequences and punchlines designed for applause.
Amit Trivedi’s background score supports the drama but lacks the subtlety needed for an intense political thriller. Cinematographer Anay Goswami does manage to elevate several scenes visually, particularly in the raid segments, but it’s not enough to rescue the film from its narrative slack.
Box Office and Audience Reception
Released on May 10, 2025, Raid 2 opened to strong initial box office numbers, largely driven by Ajay Devgn’s loyal fan base. However, early reviews and audience feedback indicate a mixed response, with critics pointing out the lack of substance beneath the star-centric presentation.
Trending hashtags such as #Raid2Review, #AjayDevgn, and #Raid2Disappointment have dominated social media discussions, signaling that while curiosity remains high, satisfaction is middling.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity
Raid 2 had all the ingredients for a gripping thriller — a powerful lead, a socially relevant theme, and the legacy of a successful prequel. Unfortunately, the film crumbles under its reliance on Ajay Devgn’s star image, sidelining a coherent plot and compelling character arcs. For audiences seeking a thoughtful continuation of Raid, this sequel may feel like a missed opportunity masked by commercial flair.
