Release Date: August 14, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Starring: Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, Kiara Advani, Ashutosh Rana
Director: Ayan Mukerji
Produced by: Aditya Chopra (Yash Raj Films)
Music: Pritam, Sanchit Balhara, Ankit Balhara
The Hype
War 2 is no ordinary Bollywood action-blockbuster; it is the big ticket release of the Spy Universe and this packs a punch that YRF has never delivered before. Recreating the unhinged character of Kabir that Hrithik Roshan played in his last, and handsome newcomer Jr NTR debuting in a smashing Bollywood entrance, the movie was billed to be chockfull of high-octane sizzling chemistry and action-packed cat-and-mouse game like no other before. Then does it? The question is: let us know.
Story: The Rogue Agent & The Relentless Tracker
Kabir (Hrithik Roshan) was the most trusted RAW agent who has turned rogue. Today as a contract killer, he is the guy to go to in a global terror cell known as Kali and this global terror cell is planning on crippling India.
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RAW is not going to give up however. In comes Vikram Chalapathi (Jr NTR) an agent that is fearless, unpredictable and was on a mission to kill Kabir. This is followed by jaw dropping chase sequences, and explosive action pieces and a greater mystery lurks that challenges the loyalty of all.
Why Kabir betrayed his own country? So what is his actual relationship with Vikram, and Wing Commander Kavya Luthra (Kiara Advani)? And as the worst enemies come together in one last mission, can the greatest threat face India turn out to be her only hope?
What Works
- Casting Magic – Hrithik and Jr NTR together are pure fire. Their screen presence alone is worth the ticket price.
- Stylish Action – The first half is loaded with slick fight scenes and adrenaline-pumping chases, including a stunning train sequence.
- Interval Twist – Just when you think you know the plot, the film flips it on its head.
- Performances – Hrithik oozes swag and intensity, while Jr NTR’s Bollywood debut is power-packed. Kiara Advani looks stunning and delivers in key moments.
What Falls Flat
- Déjà Vu – The first half feels too much like the original War, only with a fresh coat of paint.
- Flat Second Half – Despite a stronger plot on paper, the execution post-interval loses steam, missing those goosebump-worthy highs.
- Wasted Drama Potential – With two grey-shaded heroes, there was scope for emotional depth, but the writing doesn’t dig deep enough.
- Mediocre Music – Pritam’s songs are forgettable, though the background score keeps the tension alive.
Technical Take
- VFX – A step up from Pathaan and Tiger 3, but still far from Hollywood standards.
- Cinematography – Benjamin Jasper ACS captures some stunning frames, especially in action scenes.
- Editing – Could have been sharper to maintain the pace.
- Direction – Ayan Mukerji delivers style and spectacle, but the storytelling is uneven — much like his Brahmastra.
Verdict
War 2 is bigger and bolder than YRF Spy Universe films of late years but it is also uneven. Hrithik with his charisma, Jr NTR make a rock-solid debut and the first half has enough action to keep you hooked. Regrettably, the second half is not all that it promises and you feel you need more oomph in the report.
If your bag is the stars, the flair and some exciting action sequences, you will leave satisfied. Yet, in case you are seeking a spy epic to move you as much on an emotional level as visually, War 2 comes a little short.
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5 — Watch it for Hrithik vs Jr NTR, stay for the action, lower your expectations for the story.