Awarapan 2 Movie Review: Emraan Hashmi Returns, But Can Shivam Hashmi Recreate the Original Magic?

Movie Name: Awarapan 2

Release Date: 14 August 2026
Starring: Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Suvinder Vicky, Salil Acharya, Vijayant Kohli, Atul Kumar, Aniruddh Rawal
Director: Nitin Kakkar
Producers: Mukesh Bhatt and Vishesh Bhatt
Production Banner: Vishesh Films
Music Directors: Amaal Mallik, Mithoon Sharma and Jeet Gannguli
Editor: Devendra Murdeshwar
Language: Hindi
Genre: Action, Romance, Drama

Related Links: Trailer

Story

Awarapan 2 takes forward the story of Shivam Pandit almost two decades after the original film. Shivam once again finds himself pulled into the criminal world, where he has to face violence, betrayal and love while continuing his search for redemption.

The sequel brings in a fresh emotional conflict while retaining the dark and wounded personality that made Shivam such a memorable character.

The film works as a continuation for fans who have loved the 2007 movie, while also attempting to stand on its own as an action-romantic drama for those who haven't watched the original.

Plus Points

Emraan Hashmi's return as Shivam is easily the film's biggest attraction.

Hashmi's intense screen presence remains one of the strongest aspects of the movie, as reflected in early audience reactions.

The nostalgia factor is used effectively without completely sidelining the new story.

The music and background score retain the emotional flavour associated with Awarapan.

Shabana Azmi adds considerable weight to the dramatic conflict, with the trailer presenting her in an unexpectedly antagonistic role.

The action sequences and darker atmosphere give the sequel a bigger, more expansive feel.

Minus Points

The sequel has a tough act to follow, considering the original's music and emotional impact have achieved cult status over the years.

Some viewers may find the revenge and action formula familiar.

The nostalgia-heavy treatment can sometimes feel more targeted towards established Awarapan fans than first-time viewers.

Disha Patani's character has less impact compared to the Shivam-focused central narrative.

Technical Aspects

Director Nitin Kakkar keeps Awarapan 2 firmly rooted in action, romance and emotional drama. Vishnu Rao's cinematography gives the film a darker and contemporary visual identity, while Devendra Murdeshwar's editing helps maintain the pace, particularly during the action portions.

Music plays a crucial role here, especially because the original Awarapan is still remembered for its soulful and emotionally charged soundtrack. The sequel tries to bring back that same emotional connection while also introducing new compositions.

The background score and presentation of the action sequences have also received positive mentions in early audience reactions.

Verdict

Awarapan 2 is a nostalgic yet reasonably ambitious comeback for Shivam Pandit. Emraan Hashmi remains the heart and soul of the film, while the mix of revenge, romance, action and soulful music provides the sequel with its strongest moments.

For fans of the 2007 Awarapan, Shivam's return and the musical callbacks are likely to be the biggest reasons to watch the film. While the sequel may not fully recreate the raw emotional surprise of the original, it succeeds in bringing that world back to the big screen.