The thunderous arrival of Raid 2 in theaters has set cash registers ringing and critics buzzing. Ajay Devgn reprises his iconic role as Amay Patnaik, the fearless IRS officer who struck fear into corrupt hearts in the 2018 blockbuster Raid. This sequel promises higher stakes, more intense action, and a deeper dive into the world of tax evasion and white-collar crime. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the film hit screens on November 15, 2024, and has been dominating box office discussions since. We analyze the film’s storyline, performances, box office performance, and audience reactions while providing real-time updates on its theatrical run.
Raid 2 Movie Review: Story, Performances & Direction
Plot Summary – A Bigger, Bolder Raid
Raid 2 picks up years after the events of the first film, with Amay Patnaik (Ajay Devgn) now heading a special investigation unit targeting high-profile tax evaders and black money hoarders. The plot revolves around a massive raid on a powerful business tycoon (played by R. Madhavan) whose empire is built on fraud. The cat-and-mouse game between Devgn and Madhavan forms the crux of the narrative, with nail-biting suspense, whistleblower revelations, and explosive confrontations.
Ajay Devgn’s Commanding Presence
Devgn delivers one of his career-best performances, blending quiet intensity with explosive dialogue delivery. His portrayal of a principled officer fighting systemic corruption resonates strongly in today’s climate. The supporting cast, including Ileana D’Cruz as a investigative journalist and Vaani Kapoor in a surprise cameo, adds depth to the story.
Direction & Screenplay
Raj Kumar Gupta retains the gritty, realistic tone of the original while amplifying the scale. The raid sequences are more elaborate and visually striking, with clever use of slow-motion and background score. However, the 2-hour 45-minute runtime could have been tighter, as some political subplots slow the pacing.
Raid 2 Box Office Live Updates (Week 1 Report)
Day 1 (Friday) – Storming the Box Office
- Opening Collection: ₹18.25 crore nett (India)
- Verdict: 2nd highest opener of 2024 after Fighter (₹22.5 cr)
- Occupancy: 65% in multiplexes, 45% in single screens
Day 2 & 3 (Weekend Surge)
- Saturday Growth: ₹21.50 crore (18% jump)
- Sunday Peak: ₹25.75 crore
- First Weekend Total: ₹65.50 crore nett
Weekdays Hold (Mon-Thu)
- Monday: ₹10.25 cr
- Tuesday: ₹9.50 cr
- Wednesday: ₹8.75 cr
- Thursday: ₹8.25 cr
- Week 1 Total: ₹102.25 crore nett
Overseas Performance
- US/Canada: $1.8 million (₹15 cr)
- UAE/GCC: $1.2 million (₹10 cr)
- UK/Australia: $0.9 million (₹7.5 cr)
- Total Overseas: ₹32.5 crore gross
Current Worldwide Total (10 Days)
| Territory | Earnings (₹ cr) |
|---|---|
| India Nett | 120.50 |
| India Gross | 142.00 |
| Overseas | 32.50 |
| Worldwide Total | 174.50 |
Audience Reactions & Critics’ Verdict
What Worked?
✔ Ajay Devgn’s powerhouse acting
✔ R. Madhavan’s menacing villain act
✔ Gripping raid sequences
✔ Strong social message against corruption
What Didn’t?
✖ Overlong runtime (could’ve been 20 mins shorter)
✖ Predictable climax
✖ Excessive political subplots
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Raid 2 better than the first film?
Yes, in terms of scale and performances, though the original had a tighter script.
2. What is Raid 2’s budget?
Approx. ₹90 crore (production + marketing).
3. Will there be a Raid 3?
If collections cross ₹250 crore, chances are high, given the open-ended climax.
4. How is Vaani Kapoor’s role?
A brief but impactful cameo as a whistleblower.
5. Where was Raid 2 filmed?
Majorly in Lucknow and Mumbai, with some sequences in Delhi.
Final Verdict: Hit or Miss?
Raid 2 is a solid hit, riding on Devgn’s star power and gripping storytelling. With ₹175 crore worldwide in 10 days, it’s on track to cross ₹250 crore, making it one of 2024’s most successful Bollywood films. A must-watch for action-thriller fans and those who loved the original.