Director: Ayan Mukerji
Rating: ***
Bollywood’s most ambitious espionage saga returns with War 2, a high-octane action thriller released on August 14, 2025. Directed by the dynamic Ayan Mukerji, the film brings together two of Indian cinema’s biggest powerhouses—Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR—for the first time in an electrifying face-off. Building on the events of War (2019), this latest chapter in YRF’s Spy Universe promises grand spectacle, adrenaline-pumping stunts, and globe-trotting intrigue. But does it match its hype? Let’s dive into the details.
Storyline & Plot – Global Stakes, Relentless Pace
The plot unfolds with Kabir Dhaliwal (Hrithik Roshan) living a shadowy life on the run after the explosive events of the first War. His peace is short-lived as a new, high-risk mission threatens global security. The agency, determined to stop this catastrophic threat, enlists Vikram (Jr NTR), a fiercely disciplined yet morally complex operative.
Their paths cross across some of the world’s most picturesque yet dangerous locales—Mumbai’s bustling streets, Spain’s coastal cities, Italy’s charming landscapes, and the shimmering skyscrapers of Abu Dhabi. Amid betrayals, shifting loyalties, and pulse-racing confrontations, the two men find themselves locked in a battle where trust is as elusive as victory.
While the premise is engaging, the screenplay often races ahead at breakneck speed, sacrificing emotional weight for continuous action. Plot twists, though frequent, feel predictable, and the suspense doesn’t always build to its full potential.
Performances – Star Power in Full Swing
Hrithik Roshan as Kabir Dhaliwal
Hrithik brings his signature mix of suave charm, magnetic screen presence, and combat finesse. His portrayal of Kabir is confident and calculated, though his emotional beats could have been explored more deeply to enhance audience connection.
Jr NTR’s Powerful Hindi Debut
Marking his grand entry into Hindi cinema, Jr NTR commands attention from his very first frame. With intense expressions, fluid fight choreography, and a performance that oscillates between stoic restraint and raw aggression, he proves to be the perfect foil for Hrithik. In several moments, he even edges ahead in terms of sheer screen dominance.
Kiara Advani as Kavya
Kiara brings grace, allure, and an air of mystery to the narrative. However, her character feels underdeveloped, leaving audiences wanting more depth and relevance in her role.
Supporting Cast
Ashutosh Rana and Anil Kapoor lend gravitas to key sequences, ensuring that even in quieter moments, the film maintains its weight.
Action & Direction – A Visual Spectacle
Ayan Mukerji amplifies the cinematic experience with his grand vision for action. From high-speed car chases on European highways to breathtaking aerial stunts and hand-to-hand combat scenes choreographed to perfection, War 2 delivers adrenaline in generous doses.
The cinematography is particularly striking—exotic landscapes and urban skylines are captured with IMAX-worthy grandeur. The action sequences, though thrilling, sometimes stretch believability with over-the-top physics, which may polarize viewers expecting more grounded realism.
Music, Sound, and VFX – A Mixed Bag of Brilliance
Pritam’s soundtrack is a balanced mix of catchy, high-energy tracks and intense background scores that keep the narrative’s momentum alive. However, the sound mixing occasionally drowns out subtler emotional cues in favor of volume and impact.
On the visual front, most set pieces are polished and immersive, though a few CGI-heavy moments feel slightly dated compared to international spy thrillers. Still, the film’s visual design excels in creating an immersive espionage atmosphere.
Screenplay & Emotional Depth – Style Over Substance
While War 2 shines in spectacle, it stumbles in emotional engagement. The narrative’s rapid pacing leaves limited space for character development or meaningful dialogue. The tension between Kabir and Vikram, though entertaining, could have been further enriched with stronger backstories and moral conflicts.
This emphasis on high-octane entertainment over layered storytelling makes War 2 a treat for action enthusiasts but a mild letdown for those seeking a complex, character-driven spy drama.
Verdict – Who Should Watch War 2?
If your cinematic cravings lean toward big-screen action, charismatic heroes, and jaw-dropping set pieces, War 2 is tailor-made for you. Hrithik Roshan’s magnetism and Jr NTR’s fiery debut combine to create an exhilarating watch that’s best experienced in theatres, preferably on IMAX or 4DX for maximum impact.
However, if you’re looking for original storytelling, intricate plots, or emotionally resonant drama, you may find the film’s narrative too formulaic.
