Release Date: August 14, 2025
Rating (ibomma.co.in): 3/5
Cast & Crew
- Starring: NTR, Hrithik Roshan, Kiara Advani, Ashutosh Rana
- Director: Ayan Mukerji
- Producer: Aditya Chopra (Yash Raj Films)
- Music Directors: Pritam, Sanchit Balhara, Ankit Balhara
- Cinematographer: Benjamin Jasper ACS
- Editor: Aarik Sheikh
Related Link: Official Trailer
Overview
War 2 is the newest chapter in Bollywood’s YRF Spy Universe, featuring the powerhouse pairing of NTR and Hrithik Roshan. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, this spy thriller entered cinemas with much anticipation.
Story
Kabir (Hrithik Roshan), a skilled R&AW agent, turns rogue, becoming a freelance assassin targeting high-profile individuals. Meanwhile, a powerful cartel named ‘Kali’ forms, aiming to destroy India. Kabir is recruited by Kali to aid this cause. Vikram Chalapathi (Jr. NTR), another R&AW agent, takes it upon himself to stop Kabir. The film explores Vikram’s mission, Kabir’s motives, and the connection between them and Wing Commander Kavya Luthra (Kiara Advani).
Strengths
- Casting: The biggest attraction is seeing NTR and Hrithik Roshan together, creating a dynamic duo on screen.
- Action: The first half delivers high-energy, well-choreographed action scenes that keep viewers engaged despite some weak VFX.
- Performances: Hrithik Roshan commands the screen with charisma, and NTR impresses with his signature intensity. Kiara and others deliver competent roles.
- Interval Twist: The mid-point twist sets up anticipation for the second half.
Weaknesses
- Plot Familiarity: The first half feels reminiscent of the original War, with predictable elements despite decent action.
- Narration: The story’s execution falters, especially in the second half, where the pacing slows and excitement dwindles.
- Character Depth: Grey-shaded roles offer promise but lack impactful emotional resonance. The emotional moments come too late to make a lasting impression.
- Lack of Thrills: The cat-and-mouse game between the leads is portrayed too simply and doesn’t create the desired suspense.
Technical Aspects
- Music: Pritam’s songs are average; background score by Sanchit and Ankit Balhara suits the action sequences well.
- Choreography: The Salam Anali song’s dance sequences could have been stronger given the talent involved.
- VFX: Better than recent YRF outings like Pathaan and Tiger 3 but still not exceptional for the budget.
- Cinematography & Editing: Benjamin Jasper ACS’s visuals are good in parts, though tighter editing was needed.
- Direction: Ayan Mukerji’s narration is uneven, echoing issues from Brahmastra, resulting in a flat second half.
Extra: Audience Reactions
- The film received a variety of responses from audiences. Some viewers called War 2 a “blockbuster” and praised the chemistry between Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR, stating, “A must-watch! It has everything: action, drama, emotion, twists, and surprises.”
- Many fans celebrated NTR’s powerful entry and the movie’s interval twist. Others applauded Hrithik’s scenes and the music, predicting a “box office storm” in North India and abroad.
- However, there were mixed reviews as well: some viewers found the movie lacking in originality and emotional depth, saying, “The usual good versus bad guys chase. The film lacked the elements of the previous one.” Insiders from the YRF camp even described War 2 as “the weakest film of the universe,” disappointed by an overlong and emotionally flat second half.
Extra: Box Office Performance
- Despite divided reviews, War 2 has performed strongly at the box office.
- India (4 days): ₹174.75 crore net
- Worldwide (4 days): ₹268.25 crore
- Sunday Collection: ₹32.15 crore (India)
- The movie quickly surpassed the lifetime total of “Sikandar” and is now among the top five Indian grossers of 2025. While it trails Rajinikanth’s “Coolie,” it has outperformed several recent blockbusters in its opening week.
Extra: Franchise Future & Easter Eggs
- War 2 delivers not just on action but also on strategic franchise-building. The film reportedly features two post-credit scenes, revealing major twists and teasing plans for the next wave of YRF Spy Universe films.
- This approach makes War 2 a vital piece in the growing franchise, drawing comparisons to cinematic universes like Marvel. Rumors suggest future films will include cameo appearances from stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, and that Tiger’s character will play a pivotal role in upcoming spy stories.
Verdict
War 2 improves on recent YRF Spy Universe films, thanks largely to strong performances and engaging first-half action. However, inconsistent storytelling and a lackluster second half prevent it from reaching its full potential. If you can overlook these flaws, it’s worth a watch.
Also Read: Mahavatar Narsimha Review
