In 2015, we met Vijay Salgoankar and his family on screen with Drishyam who were facing the aftermath of an unintended crime. However, I hadn’t had the closure I needed with the story, just like Tabu and Rajat Kapoor‘s characters. But what stayed etched in my mind was what Ajay Devgn and his family did on the 2nd and 3rd of October of 2014. Now with Drishyam 2 releasing today, I watched the story come to a full circle. Drishyam 2 stars Ajay Devgn, Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta, Mrunal Jadhav, Akshaye Khanna, Tabu, Rajat Kapoor, Saurabh Shukla, and Kamlesh Sawant in important roles. The 2 hours 25 minutes film is directed by Abhishek Pathak and it surely leaves your mind boggled as you walk out of the theater. I watched the film last night and honestly, wasn’t expecting to get as stunned or impressed as I did with the storytelling of this one.
Considering Drishyam 2 has an existing Malayalam version from where the Hindi one stems, a lot of comparisons are expected. But let me tell you there is room for none because both of them are amazing in their own sense. Drishyam 2 is a tale of seven years after Vijay and his family were accused of murder, the victim’s ashes aren’t put to rest and that is not letting his mother be in peace. 7 years later leading a happy and somewhat peaceful life Salgaonkars think they have left it all behind, but have they really? Well, the case is reopened and surprisingly there is an eyewitness to Vijay’s crime, Meera Deshmukh is also on the lookout, while Gaitonde is all in support to get back at this middle-class family from Goa. How it all culminates to a climax is what keeps you on the edge of your seat. And before I tell you what I liked about the film…
Watch Drishyam 2 trailer here:
Things that I liked about Drishyam 2…
1. Ajay Devgn As Vijay Salgaonkar
I have to say, Vijay is an utter genius, for the way, he sketches the trail of the crime. He covers all tracks so brilliantly only to protect his family. In all honesty, Ajay Devgn has played this part to the T and I totally enjoyed watching him back in this role, this time more prepared and confident to make sure no harm comes home.
2. The storytelling by Abhishek Pathak
In the first half of the film, there are so many questions that come up, about Vijay and his behavior. You know he is up to something but what exactly, no idea. That’s when it all begins to unwind and the way it does is just so good. Kudos to Mr. Pathak for telling the story so well, especially since the second half of the film is so gripping. Even though the first half looks a little dragged, the second half makes it worthwhile. It’s a very intelligently crafted plot that is even more brilliantly executed, so a big thumbs up for the storytelling. Also, certain humorous references to part one are woven quite well.
3. Akshaye Khanna as IG Tarun Ahlawat
As they say, a good mastermind needs an even better force to give him a tough fight. That’s exactly what Akshaye is. He is truly an opponent who can challenge Vijay’s intelligence, and the way Aksahye has played this character is amazing. The daunting demeanor that he carries throughout the film is quite apt. So, I was very charmed by Akshaye in the film.
4. Ishita Dutta as Anju
Ishita has delivered a brilliant performance in the film, she has in fact managed to grasp the intensity her character needs after all that it has been through. In fact, the impact of the nightmare she has witnessed is so well portrayed by Ishita at various occasions in the film.
5. Kamlesh Sawant as Gaitonde
Right from Drishyam, we have seen Gaitonde having issues with Vijay and when he got a chance to hit back he didn’t hesitate. In the second part, the rivalry is as strong, in fact, it’s gotten even more bitter than it was. But Gaitonde has his boss-man moments in the show and the way Kamlesh plays the part is just too good.
Things that could have been better…
Honestly, as I said, it is quite an intelligently crafted story so there is not much I would like to change. Just the build-up to the climax could be quicker and a song here and there could be done away with. Otherwise, Drishyam 2 is the perfect version of itself.
Do watch this one on the big screen.
MM Verdict: 4 stars out of 5
Related: Drishyam 2 took home the award for Best Film at IIFA 2023.