Raid 2: A Sequel That Raises the Stakes in the Fight Against Corruption

 

When Raid first hit screens, it set a new benchmark for Hindi crime thrillers with its real-life-inspired story and nail-biting tension. Raid 2 (2025) doesn’t just follow in those footsteps—it strides forward with even greater confidence and ambition.

The Plot: More Than Just a Raid

The film picks up years after the events of the original, with IRS officer Amay Patnaik (Ajay Devgn) now assigned to a high-profile case in Bhoj, Madhya Pradesh. The target: Dada Manohar Bhai (Riteish Deshmukh), a cunning and ruthless politician whose empire of corruption is the stuff of legend. As Patnaik and his team prepare for their most challenging raid yet, the film unfolds as a gripping cat-and-mouse game, layered with political maneuvering and personal stakes.

What Sets Raid 2 Apart

Unlike many sequels that simply rehash old formulas, Raid 2 brings fresh energy to the screen. The screenplay is tight, with each scene building toward a crescendo of tension. The film doesn’t rely on action set pieces, but rather on the suspense of procedure and the psychological battle between its leads.

Ajay Devgn delivers yet another compelling performance as Amay Patnaik, embodying quiet determination and moral clarity. Riteish Deshmukh, in a departure from his usual comic roles, is a revelation as the antagonist—charming yet menacing, and utterly believable as a man who wields power with a smile.

Vaani Kapoor, as Malini Patnaik, adds emotional weight, especially in scenes where the personal cost of fighting corruption becomes painfully clear. The supporting cast, including Saurabh Shukla and Amit Sial, further enriches the narrative with their nuanced performances.

Visuals and Atmosphere

Director Raj Kumar Gupta crafts a world that feels authentic and lived-in. The cinematography uses muted tones to mirror the bureaucratic maze and moral ambiguity that Patnaik must navigate. Amit Trivedi’s score is effective, though the film’s real soundtrack is the tension that hums beneath every conversation and confrontation.

Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths:

  • The film’s pacing keeps you engaged, especially as the raid itself unfolds.

  • The performances, particularly from Devgn and Deshmukh, are top-notch.

  • The story feels timely, tackling themes of corruption and integrity with intelligence and heart.

• Weaknesses:

  • Some viewers might find the middle act a bit slow, as it delves into procedural details.

  • The emotional core, while present, isn’t as deeply explored as in the first film.

Final Thoughts

Raid 2 is a testament to the power of good storytelling and strong performances. It’s a film that entertains while also making you think—about the price of honesty, the complexity of power, and the courage it takes to stand up for what’s right. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or simply appreciate films with substance, Raid 2 is well worth your time.

Rating: Good 

Watch this movie on Netflix.