Awarapan 2 Movie Review: Emraan Hashmi Brings Back His Classic Charm

Emraan Hashmi’s ‘Awarapan 2’ has arrived in cinemas, bringing back the much-loved character Shivam Pandit nearly two decades after the original film. The sequel carries forward the emotional world of the first instalment while introducing a new mission filled with crime, action and human trafficking.

Directed by Nitin Kakkar and written by Vishesh Bhatt, the film attempts to retain the emotional depth of the original while making the scale bigger. The result is an engaging sequel that works particularly well because of Emraan Hashmi’s performance and the film’s emotional core.

Awarapan 2: Movie Details

Awarapan 2 Story: Shivam Takes on a Dangerous New Mission

The story of ‘Awarapan 2’ continues from the events of the first film. Shivam Pandit has survived his past but continues to carry the emotional scars of losing his love, Aaliyah.

His life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a newborn baby. He takes the child to the orphanage where he himself grew up and names her Aaliyah. Shivam continues to care for the little girl from a distance, hoping that she will have a better life than he did.

However, things take a dark turn after Aaliyah is adopted by a couple who are secretly involved in human trafficking. When Shivam learns that the child has been sold, he refuses to lose another person named Aaliyah from his life.

He travels to Bangkok with an Interpol officer and enters a dangerous criminal network to rescue Aaliyah along with several other children. His mission brings him face-to-face with Zorawar, the son of drug lord Amrit, as well as Zorawar’s sister Zara and brother Sikandar.

Meanwhile, Nafisa runs a rival criminal operation, adding another layer to the conflict.

The story eventually becomes much more than a rescue mission. For Shivam, it becomes a personal battle driven by love, guilt, redemption and his determination to protect innocent lives.

Awarapan 2 Movie Review: An Effective Mix of Emotion and Action

‘Awarapan 2’ understands what made the original film connect with audiences. Instead of relying entirely on action, the sequel builds its story around emotion and gives Shivam a strong personal motivation.

The first half is particularly engaging. The screenplay moves at a good pace and successfully balances action sequences with emotional moments. Shivam’s mission gives the narrative a clear direction, keeping viewers invested in his journey.

The second half does lose some momentum in places. A few scenes feel stretched and the predictable nature of certain developments also becomes noticeable. However, the film manages to regain its pace before the weaknesses become too distracting.

One of the film’s strengths is the way it connects with the original. References and situations from the first film are incorporated into the new story without making the sequel feel like a simple remake.

Also Read- Batwara 1947 Review: Sunny Deol Shines in Partition Drama

Emraan Hashmi Delivers a Strong Comeback as Shivam Pandit

Emraan Hashmi is undoubtedly the biggest strength of ‘Awarapan 2’.

As Shivam Pandit, he returns to the intense action-crime persona that audiences enjoyed during his early career. His screen presence remains strong, particularly during the action sequences.

But it is the emotional scenes where Hashmi makes the biggest impact. He effectively portrays Shivam’s pain, anger, helplessness and determination.

Fans who enjoyed seeing Emraan Hashmi in films such as ‘Murder’ and ‘Zeher’ will find plenty to appreciate in his return to this darker, more intense avatar.

How Are Disha Patani, Purab Kohli and the Supporting Cast?

Purab Kohli makes an impression as Zorawar. He brings the required menace to the character, although the antagonist could have been written as even more dangerous and intimidating.

Disha Patani plays Zara. Unfortunately, her character does not get enough material to make a major impact on the overall narrative. She performs her part sincerely but remains somewhat underutilised.

Shabana Azmi, as Nafisa, brings her experience and screen presence to the film. However, her role is relatively limited, making her appearance feel more like an extended cameo.

Child actor Mayra Shivaan does well as Aaliyah and handles the emotional scenes with confidence. Suvinder Vicky, Vaijayanti Kohli and Anirudh Rawal also make their presence felt in supporting roles.

Writing and Direction: Does the Sequel Stay Connected to the Original?

Writer Vishesh Bhatt deserves credit for extending the original story without completely abandoning its emotional foundation.

The sequel continues to explore the idea of saving the oppressed and fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. This thematic connection gives the two films a sense of continuity.

The story itself is not particularly unpredictable. Several developments can be anticipated well in advance. However, the emotional stakes and action sequences help maintain the film’s engagement.

Director Nitin Kakkar maintains a serious tone throughout the film and successfully carries forward the atmosphere associated with the original.

Still, the film could have benefited from tighter editing and greater attention to detail in certain sequences.

Action and Emotion Work Well Together

The action sequences are among the film’s major attractions. Importantly, most of the action is connected to the story rather than being inserted merely for spectacle.

Shivam’s physicality and intensity make the action scenes enjoyable, while the emotional moments give the violence a stronger narrative purpose.

However, a few sequences lack the kind of detailing that could have made them more convincing. Some situations require a greater degree of realism and logical consistency.

Music and Background Score: Nostalgia Works, But the Songs Fall Short

The makers smartly use a new version of ‘Tera Mera Rishta’ as a musical callback to the original film. It instantly creates nostalgia and strengthens the connection between the two instalments.

However, the new songs do not leave the same lasting impression as the music of the first ‘Awarapan’.

Jubin Nautiyal’s ‘Laado’ is the standout track and works particularly well during the emotional portions of the film.

The background score by Raju Singh complements the crime-action setting and adds intensity to several important scenes.

Biggest Strengths of Awarapan 2

• Emraan Hashmi’s performance
• Strong emotional core
• Engaging action sequences
• Connection with the original film
• Effective background score
• Strong first half
• Nostalgic use of ‘Tera Mera Rishta’

Weaknesses of Awarapan 2

• Music is not as memorable as the original
• Some portions of the second half drag
• Villain could have been more intimidating
• Lack of detailing in a few sequences
• Supporting characters are underutilised

Should You Watch Awarapan 2 in Theatres?

If you enjoyed the original ‘Awarapan’ and want to see Emraan Hashmi return to his intense action-crime avatar, ‘Awarapan 2’ is worth a watch.

The film is not flawless. Its predictable storyline, uneven second half and less memorable music prevent it from becoming a perfect sequel. However, the emotional storyline, action, nostalgia and especially Emraan Hashmi’s performance make it an entertaining theatrical experience.

Plus Points

• Emraan Hashmi
• Emotional Story
• Strong Action
• Original Film Connection

Minus Points

• Forgettable Music
• Uneven Second Half

Awarapan 2 Final Verdict: Does It Bring Back the Old Charm?

‘Awarapan 2’ successfully carries forward the emotional legacy of the original while giving Shivam Pandit a new purpose and a new battle.

The film may not recreate every element that made the first instalment memorable, but it understands the character and gives Emraan Hashmi enough material to shine.

With a compelling emotional core, action-packed moments and strong nostalgia, ‘Awarapan 2’ is a satisfying sequel for fans of the original and a solid comeback vehicle for Emraan Hashmi.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Also Read- Indian Cinema: How Films Boost India's Soft Power