Dhurandhar The Revenge is an ambitious cinematic outing that dares to push boundaries, both in terms of storytelling and sheer runtime. Clocking in at just under four hours, this sequel directed by Aditya Dhar is not a casual watch—it demands time, attention, and patience. However, for those willing to invest in its world, the film offers a gripping experience filled with emotional highs, intense action, and unexpected twists.
At the heart of the story is Hamza Ali Mazari, played by Ranveer Singh, an Indian intelligence operative caught in a dangerous and high-stakes conflict against Pakistan’s ISI chief, Major Iqbal. The film traces Hamza’s journey, which begins with his past identity as Jaskirat Singh Rangi. His transformation into a hardened yet emotionally complex agent forms the backbone of the narrative. As he navigates hostile territory, relying on both intelligence and restraint, the film constantly raises the question—will he succeed in his mission and live up to the title of Sher-e-Baloch?
Aditya Dhar structures the film in a chapter-wise format, which works surprisingly well given the length of the movie. Instead of overwhelming the audience, this approach breaks the story into manageable segments, making it easier to follow while maintaining narrative continuity. Dhar’s writing is sharp, and his attention to detail is evident throughout. Even in a film of this scale, the storytelling rarely loses clarity, which is a commendable achievement.
One of the strongest aspects of the film is its ability to keep viewers engaged despite its long runtime. Dhar ensures that the stakes remain high at almost every point, constantly introducing new elements that add intrigue. The mid-film introduction of certain key characters adds fresh momentum to the story, preventing it from feeling stagnant. There are also several surprises and cameo appearances sprinkled throughout, which enhance the overall viewing experience and keep the audience invested.
Emotionally, the film strikes a strong chord. While it is primarily an action thriller, it does not shy away from exploring the human side of its characters. Themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and identity run deep, and there are multiple moments designed to evoke strong reactions from the audience. These scenes often feel earned rather than forced, which adds to their impact.
Visually, Dhurandhar: The Revenge operates on a grand scale. The action sequences, especially those involving large-scale destruction and bombing, rely heavily on CGI. For the most part, the visual effects are well-executed and contribute to the immersive nature of the film. Dhar’s direction deserves special mention here—holding together such an expansive narrative while ensuring that the technical elements align with the emotional core is no easy task.
However, the film is not without its shortcomings. The first half, particularly during the second chapter, feels slightly stretched. The pacing dips, and certain portions could have been trimmed without affecting the overall story. This sluggishness might test the patience of some viewers, especially those not accustomed to longer films.
Another aspect that falls slightly short is the background score. The first installment set a high benchmark with its memorable music, and while the sequel’s soundtrack has its moments, it doesn’t quite reach the same level. That said, there are still standout tracks that leave a lasting impression. The emotional rendition of “Gehra Hua” and the climactic song sung by Arijit Singh add depth to key moments, enhancing the film’s emotional resonance. Additionally, the use of a few classic tracks is well-placed and complements the narrative effectively.
When it comes to performances, Ranveer Singh once again proves his versatility and commitment as an actor. He delivers a power-packed performance, effortlessly balancing intense action sequences with deeply emotional scenes. His portrayal of Hamza is layered—he brings vulnerability, anger, determination, and resilience to the character in a way that feels authentic. His ability to transition between these emotions seamlessly is one of the highlights of the film.
R. Madhavan, playing IB Director Ajay Sanyal, provides a strong supporting performance. His portrayal is understated yet impactful, offering a sense of stability and gravitas to the story. He serves as an anchor, grounding the narrative even when it ventures into larger-than-life territory.
Arjun Rampal, as the antagonist Major Iqbal, is convincingly menacing. He brings a certain intensity to the role that makes his character genuinely intimidating. His performance ensures that the conflict feels real and personal, which is crucial for a film of this nature.
Rakesh Bedi continues his role as the cunning politician Jameel Jamali, adding a mix of humor and sharp wit to the story. His character plays a significant part in the narrative, and Bedi handles it with ease, making his presence both entertaining and meaningful.
Sara Arjun, despite having limited screen time, contributes effectively to the film. Her performance is sincere and supports the narrative without feeling unnecessary or forced.
In the end, a film that rewards patience. Its lengthy runtime might seem intimidating at first, but it ultimately delivers a comprehensive and engaging cinematic experience. The film manages to balance action, emotion, and storytelling in a way that keeps the audience invested till the very end.
For those who decide to watch it, staying back for the post-credit scene is highly recommended. It offers an additional layer to the story and addresses a lingering curiosity related to Ranveer Singh’s character.
Overall, It is a bold and ambitious project that largely succeeds in what it sets out to achieve. While it has a few pacing issues and doesn’t fully live up to the musical legacy of its predecessor, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Strong performances, engaging storytelling, and a well-executed vision make it a worthwhile watch—especially for fans of intense action dramas.
And as a lighter takeaway—Ranveer Singh’s look in the film certainly stands out, leaving many wondering about the secret behind that impressive hair.
