War 2 Review: Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR deliver sizzling chemistry in YRF’s spy universe, but a weak plot and familiar tropes dim the thrill. Full expert review here.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
War 2 Review: A Spy Spectacle That Falls Flat
When War 2 finally dropped on screens on August 14, 2025, audiences expected fireworks—two leading men from different industries teaming up for an exciting moment under YRF’s Spy Universe, but did this action-packed spy film actually deliver? Let’s break it down.
An Entry for the Spy Universe
War 2 continues Yash Raj Films’ ambitious Spy Universe following Pathaan, Tiger Zinda Hai, and War (2019). Directed by Ayan Mukerji, it stars Hrithik Roshan reprising his iconic Major Kabir, marks Jr NTR’s Bollywood debut, and stars Kiara Advani joining Hrithik and Jr NTR as the lead trio.
With a staggering estimated production budget of ₹400 crore, it became one of India’s most expensive films—and expectations were sky-high.
What Works (And What Doesn’t)
Starring Power & Chemistry
Hrithik’s star power was on full display, and Jr. NTR adds some youthful brand new energy, even being called terrific chemistry in several reviews. One reviewer commented on how the duo’s “fiery face-off” had audiences buzzing: “screen couldn’t handle this much firepower.”
Visuals & Locations
The visuals are stunning, filmed in Spain, Italy, Abu Dhabi, Japan, and Russia. The set-pieces alone and action choreography are impressive at least in moments.
Why the Thrill Lags
Plot & Pacing
Critics have many things in common, citing that the plot is muddled, boring, and too familiar. The Indian Express is particularly scathing, referring to it as “a glossy snooze-fest” that “will never captivate you.” Hindustan Times tersely referred to it as: “plot goes on vacation”.
Overplay of Referencing
The movie seems to be having an identity crisis, drawing heavily on borrowings from Kill Bill, Crouching Tiger, John Wick, and even the original War Dance-off without much originality.
Dischord with Audience
Twitter detractors have gone so far as to say “not great, not bad – strictly MID” with the implication that the experience was accessibility “torture”. Then there were the social media accounts that even suggested that an airplane caper seemed “like a bizarre cartoon” or “worse than a video game”.
Nitro Elements – Stats, Quote, Stats & Tips
Budget vs Box Office
With a budget of ₹400 crore, the film’s advance presales in India of about 32 crores and about USD$630K in North America were considered modest numbers for a huge production.
Sizzle vs Substance
As the Indian Express charmingly summarized: “a glossy snooze-fest,” pointing out the dissonance between a visual spectacle and original content.
Real-World Parallels
Think of War 2 as a beautifully wrapped gift with nothing in it. All style and very little substance.
In my mind, when a film becomes too focused on spectacle—tying up enormous budgets for remote locations and song-like choreography—and fails to apply that same creativity to the story-innovation of the narrative, then the emotional connection loses its appeal. Far too quickly, the happy moment of “wow” disappears without narrative tethering.
Actionable Tips for Filmmakers
Spend as much time on a tight script before spending loads of cash to play in exotic locations
The novelty factor should be balanced with the nostalgia factor…find creative ways to shout out to the original source material but add enough twist that the fans feel they were rewarded, not simply remixed.
Show early crowds what you’ve got with your best sequences, so they know…If they are awesome, not just cool.
War 2 has the massive canvas of grandeur, but monumental letdowns to follow. You are glued to your seat for the massive screen appeal of Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR’s screen pair. The visuals are astounding, and the guns are back for the first half-dozen. Then it stumbles and lands somewhere between entertaining and completely forgettable.
FAQs
1. How does War 2 compare to War (2019)?
The original War wowed audiences with unexpected action and fresh characters. While War 2 is visually stunning, it truly lacks the same narrative richness that War (2019) delivered with a bang! War 2 pales to War (2019) and feels more like a stylistic echo.
2. Should I see it on the big screen?
If spectacle and star power are your things, then go and see it on a big screen – the cinematic experience will drive the payload. But to be clear, do not expect any narrative or emotional surprises.
3. How’s the music and score?
While Pritam’s songs and the Balhara brothers’ score provide transporting moments, the audio fades into the visual blur otherwise.
4. Is the film financially successful?
Pre-release booking seems to tick moderately, although there is still time to tell; pre-release bookings are only a guide, and sustaining footfall will not come easy. With a budget of ₹400 crores, the film will need to sustain footfall to break even.
