Movie Review: ‘War 2′
A spectacle of star power and blistering action, ‘War 2’ roars onto the screen with a deafening promise of high-stakes espionage and an epic confrontation. Director Ayan Mukerji, under Yash Raj Films, takes the reins of the YRF Spy Universe, delivering a film that is undoubtedly a visual feast.
The action thriller’s most potent weapon is its casting. Hrithik Roshan reprises his role as the enigmatic Kabir, a performance that is as much a display of sheer physicality as it is of charismatic cool. Roshan moves through the frame with a panther-like grace, his every gesture radiating a confidence that is both thrilling and intimidating.
The fireworks ignite with the introduction of NTR Jr. as the mysterious Vikram. NTR is a force of nature, an actor who can convey a universe of emotion with just a flick of his eyes. His electrifying presence is a powerful counterpoint to Roshan’s calculated stoicism, and their on-screen chemistry-a cocktail of respect and simmering rivalry-is the film’s undeniable highlight.
The supporting cast, including Kiara Advani and Anil Kapoor, while competent, have roles that feel somewhat limited. They are a welcome presence, but the screenplay, which is laser-focused on its two leading men, leaves their potential largely untapped.
The action, a critical pillar of this genre, is a triumph. The high-octane action of ‘War 2’ is a collaborative masterpiece, choreographed and directed by an experienced team of action directors and stunt co-ordinators. The hand-to-hand combat is visceral and beautifully shot, a ballet of brutal precision.
The chase sequences are breath-taking in their scale and execution, particularly a car pursuit that is a masterclass in kinetic filmmaking. However, some moments in the action sequences may feel familiar, as if pulled from a template-thrilling yet not entirely surprising.
Where the film could have been bettered is in its narrative. The screenplay by Shridhar Raghavan is a serviceable vehicle for the action, but it lacks the intricate plotting and genuine suspense of a truly great spy thriller.
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The twists can be anticipated, and the emotional beats at times feel less organic. While the film’s reliance on familiar tropes provides a satisfying structure, it can occasionally drain the tension that should be its lifeblood.
Ayan Mukerji’s direction is a double-edged sword. He crafts a visually stunning film, with every frame polished to a mirror shine. The pacing in the first half of ‘War 2’ is excellent, building a sense of anticipation and dread. However, as the plot unfolds, the direction feels less assured, and Mukerji struggles to maintain the gripping momentum he so expertly built.
Cinematography by Benjamin Jasper is a standout, capturing the epic scale of the action and the intimate drama of the performances with equal skill. The film’s music by Pritam adds to the energy, but ‘War 2’ lacks a truly memorable, standalone musical theme.
In conclusion, ‘War 2’ is a film that undoubtedly delivers on its promise of a spectacular cinematic experience to a large extent. It primarily showcases the immense talent of its leading men. An entertaining watch, it prioritises style and action while offering a classic espionage formula.
BizAsia Rating: 3/5
