Vadh 2 Movie Review: Powered by Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta, this is a taut thriller that trusts its story and setting

Vadh 2

• "Vadh 2" is a gripping prison thriller with strong performances and solid writing.
• Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta deliver standout roles in a tense, layered story
• The film surpasses its predecessor and earns a 4/5 rating

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‘Vadh 2,’ directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu, released in theatres on 6 February and stars Sanjay Mishra, Neena Gupta, Kumud Mishra, Akshay Dogra and Amit K Singh.

Vadh 2 is a layered and unsettling story that plays its hand patiently while telling a gripping tale. This crime thriller benefits immensely from its setting and mood, which pull the viewer straight into its world and make you remain there. The film is supported by credible performances, and the cast deserves credit for coming together and delivering a film that keeps you absorbed throughout.

A slow-burn thriller that tightens the noose

The story unfolds within a jail campus, and while it functions as a whodunit, it feels like a whodunit with a twist, since viewers are given a sense of who the culprit might be, even though the final truth stays hidden till the very end. 'Vadh 2' maintains a brisk rhythm and handles events that feel rooted in reality. This performance-led film proves to be an engaging watch and, despite the lack of marketable stars, depends entirely on the acting skills of performers who are fully invested. 'Vadh 2' surpasses the original by a wide margin.

An unlikely bond behind prison walls

The plot once again centers on Shambhunath Mishra (Sanjay Mishra) and Manju (Neena Gupta), though they share no relation here. Shambhunath is a low-ranking policeman nearing retirement, while Manju is lodged in jail for a double murder. Over time, the two form an unusual bond, with Shambhunath attempting to win her over by passing country liquor through a small hole in the prison wall. The narrative shifts when Keshav arrives as a prisoner, a man who takes pleasure in assaulting an old man and killing puppies. When his actions violate jail rules, the jailer Prakash Singh (Kumud Mishra) decides to teach him the meaning of discipline and authority. Keshav’s sudden disappearance places several people under suspicion, prompting the headquarters to send Ateet Singh, a sharp and alert cop, to investigate and interrogate the suspects.

Familiar faces, a different moral game

This is not a sequel in the strict sense, as while the central characters remain, their relationship differs from the first film, even though murder remains the core theme in both. The first half carefully sets up the narrative and characters, while the second half dives into the finer details of a police procedural, with officers at the jail being closely questioned. The writing stands out as the film’s biggest strength, as it wastes no time and keeps every scene tight and purposeful. The prison sequences appear authentic and create an unsettling atmosphere where anything feels possible. The attention to detail is impressive, and the portrayal of the jail aligns closely with those found in India’s hinterland.

A cast that never misses a beat

The film features consistently strong performances, and while Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta lead the cast, the impact of the supporting characters cannot be overlooked. Sanjay Mishra is thoroughly convincing as Shambhunath Mishra, delivering a raw and unembellished performance. Neena Gupta is restrained and compelling, portraying a woman worn down by life and seemingly resigned to her fate. Kumud Mishra shines as the strict jailer, and the shift in his character during the climax is striking. However, it is Amitt K Singh as Ateet Singh, the investigating officer, who leaves the strongest impression with a controlled, memorable performance and an instinctive ability to detect lies.

A controlled thriller that knows when to stop

Vadh 2 is far superior to its predecessor and, despite its two-hour-plus runtime, remains tight and gripping. Director Jaspal Singh Sandhu handles the material with confidence, though it is clear that his writing outshines his direction. This is a well-made thriller that knows when to end and never wears out its welcome. The film captures the harsh reality of jail life and then takes a sharp turn in its final moments by moving to Dharamshala, a stark contrast that subtly reflects the film’s shifting tone. It is a film that will inevitably remind audiences of Drishyam.

Rating: 4/5