Cast: John Abraham, Sonakshi Sinha, Tahir Raj Bhasin
Director: Abhinay Deo
What's It about
How do you better a sequel to an already successful first part? You start with the writing. Get a gripping narrative, stay true to the genre and present a new story with dollops of nostalgia. Abhinay Deo ticks all the right boxes in this edge of the seat high octane entertainer that is Force 2. Yash (John Abraham) returns to the force this time around to expose a series of RAW killings that are happening all around the world. Joining him in this task is KK (Sonakshi Sinha) who's a RAW agent herself. The film cuts to chase from the opening scene and never loses pace as we jump from Mumbai to Budapest. Tahir Bhasin plays the antagonist who's not our stereotypical villain. His reasons to do what he does are believable and credible. The cat and mouse game continues with Yash and KK chasing Tahir and trying to nab him with the motive of stopping the RAW agents from dying.
What's hot
Force 2 is devoid of any clutter and paraphernalia that comes as excess baggage with any sequel. Credibility is a huge plus factor in redeeming this film and making it watchable. Abhinay Deo who has found his calling with the genre is also the man responsible for directing the desi version of 24. You can see the influences of the Bourne Identity films and the Bond series in his action sequences, yet he manages to put together moments that seem original. John Abraham's introductory scene reminds us why he's such a hit with the masses. No one comes close to the actor when it comes to having a killer physique. Deo makes the most of it with his tight close ups on Abraham's bulging biceps and shredded six packs. As Yash, he's not only convincing but manages to bring immense maturity to his character. Tahir Bhasin is menacing in an utterly unconventional way. He's a good looking guy with very bad intentions and that plays well for us. Cinematography is top class and Budapest has never looked so good. Deo ditches the cliches of building any forced romances or throwing in multiple songs to kill the pace and it works in favour of the film. Sonakshi does more than just support John and seems to be enjoying the pleasure of kicking some baddies this year.
What's not
Force 2 has some great action sequences but in the second half they get exhausting. The chase scenes and John's punches feel too forced and rehearsed. Also Sonakshi's character seems to have a backstory that we never get to hear. The club song is jarring and unnecessary in such a tight narrative. Also the fight leading to the climax is sort of cringe worthy and too over the top. There's a RPG game inspired action sequence that's borrowed from Hardcore Henry and another one where John smashes doors through multiple rooms has a Hulk hangover. Next time more original stuff please?
What to do
Force 2 is a great watch mainly because it stays true to its genre and provides ample adrenaline rush. John Abraham is in top form and the film has some of the best action sequences shot this year. Force 2 has loads of bang worth your buck.
Rating: ***
