Raid 2 (2025) Movie: This Sequel Fails to Match the Original’s Impact

Raid 2 brings back the beloved Income Tax Officer Amay Patnaik in what was supposed to be a thrilling sequel to the 2018 hit. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, this follow-up features Ajay Devgn returning as the determined IRS officer, with Riteish Deshmukh, Vaani Kapoor, and Rajat Kapoor joining the cast. The film attempts to recreate the magic of corruption-busting drama that made the original so compelling.

Set seven years after the first film, Raid 2 follows Amay Patnaik as he takes on Dada Bhai, a seemingly clean politician hiding dark secrets. With the story unfolding in 1989 Rajasthan, the film promises the same authentic period setting and gripping investigations that fans loved in the original.

Plot and Storyline

Raid 2 opens with Amay Patnaik conducting a failed palace raid, leading to his transfer to Bhoj after facing corruption allegations. The real story begins when he starts investigating Dada Bhai, a respected local figure who has managed to stay clean despite questionable activities.

The film follows a predictable path with Patnaik facing obstacles, setbacks, and eventual vindication. While the investigation has expected twists, it lacks the sharp focus that made the original so engaging. The 150-minute runtime feels stretched, with several sequences that could have been trimmed without losing impact.

Cast Performance

Ajay Devgn once again delivers a solid performance as Amay Patnaik, maintaining the character’s intensity and conviction. His no-nonsense approach anchors the film even when the script doesn’t provide the strongest material.

Riteish Deshmukh emerges as the film’s strongest asset, delivering a performance that adds real depth to the story. His chemistry with Devgn works well, and he brings both gravity and subtle humor to his role. I found his contribution to be one of the most engaging aspects of the film.

Vaani Kapoor appears in a supporting role that doesn’t offer much scope for her acting range. Rajat Kapoor, Saurabh Shukla, and Amit Sial provide solid support, bringing their characteristic screen presence to their roles.

Technical Aspects

Raj Kumar Gupta’s direction maintains the authentic period feel crucial to the original’s success. The cinematography captures the dusty, bureaucratic atmosphere of 1989 Rajasthan effectively. Production design successfully recreates the era from government offices to residential settings.

However, the film’s pacing becomes a major issue, particularly in the first half. The narrative feels stretched with sequences that interrupt the flow. The editing lacks the precision that would have elevated the viewing experience.

Critical Reception

Raid 2 has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. On IMDb, the film holds a 6.7/10 rating, indicating favorable but not outstanding reception. Rotten Tomatoes critics have been more critical, calling it a long-winded and preachy misfire.

Professional reviewers praised Riteish Deshmukh’s performance while noting the film feels too familiar and predictable. High on Films criticized the sequel for poor writing and execution with mainstream age-old Bollywood tropes.

Audience reviews have been more forgiving, with many appreciating the performances and anti-corruption themes. However, several users criticized unnecessary song sequences and predictable plot developments.

What Works

Raid 2 succeeds in several key areas that prevent it from being a complete disappointment. Ajay Devgn’s committed performance ensures Amay Patnaik remains compelling, maintaining the integrity that made the character memorable.

Riteish Deshmukh’s standout performance adds genuine value, providing both dramatic weight and subtle humor. The supporting cast brings their A-game, creating a believable ensemble that works well together.

The authentic period setting and production design effectively recreate the 1989 era. The bureaucratic atmosphere feels genuine and well-researched, maintaining visual continuity with the original.

What Could Be Better

The film suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the first half, which feels unnecessarily stretched. The screenplay lacks freshness and innovation, relying on predictable plot development and familiar character arcs.

Song integration feels forced and interrupts narrative flow. Several sequences seem included for commercial reasons rather than serving the story’s needs. The 150-minute runtime becomes a liability, making certain portions feel tedious rather than engaging.

I found myself wishing the film had taken more risks with its storytelling instead of playing it safe with established formulas.

Final Verdict

Raid 2 represents a competent but uninspired sequel that fails to recapture the original’s magic. While Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh deliver commendable performances, and the film maintains technical proficiency, it lacks sharp focus and innovative approach.

The film succeeds as a watchable entertainer tackling relevant corruption themes, but doesn’t break new ground. For fans of the original, Raid 2 provides satisfactory continuation of Amay Patnaik’s story, but won’t create the same lasting impact.

Despite shortcomings, solid performances and production values make it worth watching for those interested in the characters and themes. However, it serves as a reminder that sequels need more than familiar elements to truly succeed.

Rating: 3/5