Raid 2

deeper political undertones, and grander spectacle — but the result feels bloated and underdeveloped. The first half drags, weighed down by repetitive setups and heavy-handed symbolism, including endless convoys of Ambassador cars, exaggerated slow-motion entrances, and an overbearing score. While the second half gains some traction during the raid sequences and climactic face-off, it arrives too late and unfolds with predictable beats. The film attempts to balance satire, thriller elements, and old-school heroism, but struggles to find a consistent tone. Musical numbers, designed as showstoppers, feel intrusive and disconnected from the narrative. Ajay Devgn returns with his signature intensity, yet his portrayal of Amay Patnaik feels like a blend of familiar personas — part Singham, part Drishyam’s Vijay — rather than a distinct evolution of the character. Vaani Kapoor steps in as Patnaik’s wife, replacing Ileana D'Cruz, but her role is largely decorative. The supporting cast — including Saurabh Shukla, Rajat Kapoor, Shruti Pandey, and Yashpal Sharma — injects much-needed energy, with Amit Sial standing out in particular. The background score by Amit Trivedi and Amar Mohile adds dramatic weight but often drowns out subtler moments. Visually, the cinematography captures the scale of political estates and bureaucratic spaces, though it lacks fresh visual language. Raid 2 aspires to build on the legacy of its predecessor but ends up feeling like a diluted echo. The premise is promising and the central conflict has teeth, yet the film falters under the pressure of its own ambition and reliance on formula. It may appeal to fans of Ajay Devgn’s stoic screen presence or those drawn to political thrillers, but it doesn’t deliver the same impact as the original.