‘Awarapan 2’ Movie Review: Emraan Hashmi Proves Why He Has Cult Following; Sequel About Power of Love, Loss and Redemption

If you are a fan of actor Emraan Hashmi, Awarapan 2 will be a treat for you. The actor hasn’t lost touch with the character of Shivam Pandit from the original Awarapan, neither has he aged much. As Raghav Juyal’s character says in Aryan Khan’s The Ba***ds of Bollywood, “Akkha Bollywood ek taraf, Emraan Hashmi ek taraf.” That’s so true about Emraan in Awarapan 2 as well. He has a cult following especially among the Millennials, and some Gen-Zs. Awarapan 2 released in theatres on August 14, 2026, ahead of Independence Day 2026 (August 15) in India. Here’s what we think of the Vishesh Films sequel, Awarapan 2. ‘Awarapan 2’ Writer Bilal Siddiqi ‘Manifested’ Emraan Hashmi Film Nearly a Decade Back; Old X Post Goes Viral.

Should You Watch Original 'Awarapan' Before 'Awarapan 2'?

The biggest challenge for any sequel to a cult favourite is not telling a bigger story - it is recreating the emotion that made the original special. Awarapan 2 takes that challenge seriously. Almost 20 years after the first film, Shivam Pandit returns with a story that carries the pain of the past while giving him a new reason to fight. If you haven't watched Awarapan, it would be a good idea to do so before entering the theatre. The sequel picks up from the first film's timeline and uses moments from the original to bring audiences back into Shivam's world. Knowing his past makes his choices in the new story far more meaningful.

'Awarapan 2' Trailer - Watch Video:

Plot of 'Awarapan 2'

Since the happenings of Awarapan, almost 20 years on, Shivam continues to live with the memory of Aaliyah (Shriya Saran). During one visit to Aaliyah's grave, he hears a newborn crying nearby. He takes the baby girl to an orphanage and names her Aaliyah, creating an unexpected emotional connection with the child. He continues to help the orphanage, but everything changes when the girl is adopted and Shivam later discovers that she has fallen victim to human trafficking.

This development gives Awarapan 2 its central emotional conflict. What begins as a story of loss gradually transforms into one about protection, justice and unconditional love. The writing is perhaps the film's most pleasant surprise. The screenplay is emotionally engaging without relying entirely on nostalgia, while the dialogues have a philosophical quality that adds weight to several scenes. Some portions could certainly have been tighter, particularly in the editing department, but the overall narrative remains engaging.

Direction and Music in 'Awarapan 2'

Nitin Kakkar's direction keeps the film grounded in its emotional world. The VFX is not excessive, and that works in the film's favour. Wherever visual effects are required, they are used effectively rather than simply to make the film look bigger. The music deserves special appreciation. Awarapan had a soundtrack that became inseparable from its identity, and the sequel understands that music needs to be part of the storytelling. The songs complement the mood and emotions of the scenes instead of appearing as forced commercial additions. The new version of the iconic song Tera Mera Rishta from the original has also caught on. ‘Awarapan 2’ Song ‘Tera Mera Rishta Continues’: Mithoon Revives Iconic Emraan Hashmi Track for Sequel After Nearly Two Decades (Watch Video).

'Tera Mera Rishta - New Version' from 'Awarapan 2' - Watch Video:

Performances in 'Awarapan 2'

Emraan Hashmi is simply terrific in Awarapan 2 and proves why he has the fan-following he does. As Shivam, he brings a combination of vulnerability, rage and intensity that very few actors can pull off with such ease. His long hair, expressive eyes and physical transformation add to the character, but it is his performance that truly sells the emotional journey.

Disha Patani gets an opportunity to move beyond her glamorous image and makes the most of it. Shabana Azmi makes her presence count despite limited screen time, while Puran Gabbi delivers a strong performance with particularly impressive body language. Suvinder Vicky, Vijayant Kohli and the supporting cast are also dependable.

'Awarapan 2' Verdict

Awarapan 2 may not be perfect, but it is sincere. It respects the original, delivers nostalgia without becoming completely dependent on it, and leaves audiences with a message about love, compassion and humanity.

'Awarapan 2' Release Date

As mentioned earlier, Awarapan 2 released in theatres on August 14, 2026, and is likely to do well at the box office on the Independence Day 2026 Holiday Weekend.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2026 06:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).