War 2 Review: Hrithik vs Jr NTR – Who Stole the Show in This Big-Budget Spy Film?

The waiting is finally over, and the highly anticipated War 2 has finally landed on the big screens! Pairing the powerhouse act of Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR for the first time, this sequel promised high-octane action, mind-boggling stunts, and a new chapter in YRF’s ambitious Spy Universe. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film had audiences abuzz for months, particularly with its release just before Independence Day.

With the opening day collection of a staggering ₹40 crore, War 2 has already testified to thepulling power of its leading stars. While the film hits high on scale and star power, however, the real question is—is it meeting the hype created by the box-office brash record-smasher War (2019)? Or is it trying too much on spectacle and star charm at the cost of plotting?

War 2 Box Office Buzz & Day One Face-Off with Rajinikanth's Coolie

War 2 did not only fight villains on-screen, it contested with none other than Rajinikanth’s Coolie since day one. War 2’s advance bookings totaled ₹20.57 crore, but Coolie secured an enormous ₹37.2 crore on the same day. In spite of stiff competition, Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR‘s film remained steady, crossing ₹40 crore on the first day.

But the reception has been divided in its critical verdict. While some commended the film for its continuous action sequences and the on-screen chemistry of the lead actors, others faulted it for its unoriginal storyline and inconsistent pace. Particularly critic Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express gave it a scathing 1.5 stars and a term “glossy snooze-fest.” This divided opinion implies that War 2 is less of an emotionally engaging narrative and more of a visual experience.

War 2 Story & Performances: High-Octane Action with a Familiar Plot

Taking off from where Tiger 3 left us, War 2 propels us into another high-risk universe of spies, double-crosses, and ulterior motives. Hrithik Roshan is once again Kabir, the deadly former RAW operative operating deep undercover inside the nefarious global syndicate, Kali. His mission soon becomes clear—take down the syndicate from the inside.

However, his path collides with Wing Commander Kavya Luthra (Kiara Advani) and her father, Colonel Karan Luthra (Ashutosh Rana). In a shocking turn, Kabir is ordered by Kali to kill Karan, setting off a chain of events that brings Vikram (Jr NTR) into the picture. Vikram, a fiery RAW officer, is tasked by the new War Chief (Anil Kapoor) to hunt down Kabir and dismantle Kali’s operations.

What follows is an intense game of cat and mouse—thrilling train chases, high-speed car sequences, and moments where alliances blur. Eventually, Kabir reveals his true mission to Vikram, and the two must set aside their differences to stop Kali’s next deadly move. The movie blends action with themes of trust, revenge, and patriotism, though the core story feels a bit familiar for spy-action fans.

Hrithik Roshan as Kabir: Intensity Personified

Hrithik again demonstrates why he is among Bollywood’s best action heroes. From sword clashes to acrobatic stunts, he overwhelms every scene with a combination of intensity, emotional depth, and sheer screen presence. His dance in Janaab-e-Ali brings a whiff of old Hrithik charm amidst the pandemonium. Whether it is an emotional moment or a lethal showdown, he handles it with aplomb.

Jr NTR as Vikram: A Thunderous Bollywood Debut

In his Hindi debut, Jr NTR is equally as energetic and charismatic as Hrithik. He’s bold, self-assured, and brings his own flavor to Vikram. His delivery of dialogues—particularly the one “Jo tune gulaam banke kiya, main azaad rehke kiya”—elicits whistles from the audience. He doesn’t fade in comparison to Hrithik, which in itself is a feat, and proves to be one of the film’s biggest assets.

Kiara Advani as Kavya: Not Just a Side Chick

Unlike most of the female leads in YRF Spy Universe until now, Kiara’s Kavya is not around merely for glamour. Motivated by revenge and personal loss, her character has agency, emotional stakes, and earns her share of action sequences. Kiara is not lagging behind in the movie’s pivotal emotional moments, which further lends gravity to the plot.

The Supporting Cast

Anil Kapoor brings authority and gravitas to the role of War Chief, while Ashutosh Rana, though in a smaller role, makes a strong impression. Soni Razdan’s brief but important appearance as Kabir’s trusted friend adds warmth to the otherwise tense narrative.

Ayan Mukerji’s Direction: Visual Brilliance Meets Pacing Issues

Ayan Mukerji ventures into uncharted terrain with War 2, leaving behind romantic dramas and fantasy escapades for a dark and high-octane spy thriller. The visual spectacle is there—glacier chases, hand-to-hand combat sequences, and big sets all done on grand scale.

One highlight is the fact that the movie eschews over-the-top patriotism despite its timing near Independence Day. Rather, it emphasizes characters’ personal agendas, providing them with more depth than usual one-dimensional spy movies. Kiara’s robust character development is another welcome note.

But the pacing of the movie is a weak point. The first half is full of action and tension, gripping audiences in its grip. But the middle segment falters with too much exposition and long flashbacks, which sap the tension. By the time the movie regains the pace for the climax, some of the audience will have already begun tiring.

War 2 Final Verdict: Worth a Watch for Action Lovers

War 2 is a star-studded entertainer that lives on the heroism of Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR. It’s the sort of film which is best appreciated on the big screen, where the action, music, and visuals can surround you completely. If you want a tightly knitted spy thriller with layered plotting, you may feel a little shortchanged. But if you want stunning action and charismatic performances, this film does not disappoint.

Final Word:

Consider War 2 to be an over-the-top biryani—the action (spices) and star power (spices) are exquisite, but the story (rice) and pacing (rice) could have been prepared better. It’s certainly a one-off watch in theatres worth your while, particularly for lovers of high-budget Bollywood action and pan-India star power. Whether it becomes the Spy Universe’s longed-for blockbuster will be seen based on how well audiences welcome this Hrithik-NTR jugalbandi in the weeks ahead.