Review: Vadh 2: Writer-Director Jaspal Singh Sandhu Takes the Vadh Franchise One Notch Higher!

About four years ago, a simple yet effective film, Vadh, headlined by Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta, made waves across India. Despite the country still recovering from the COVID onslaught, the film was well received by both critics and audiences. Now, its sequel, Vadh 2, not only lives up to expectations but, in many ways, surpasses the sincerity and gripping experience of the first part.

Vadh 2 builds suspense at a measured pace, and its taut narrative keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Shambhunath Mishra (Sanjay Mishra) works as a prison guard in one of the jails in Madhya Pradesh. To meet his financial needs, he sells vegetables grown within the jail premises in the local market, though illegally. This practice is known to the jail personnel, who allow it as a sympathetic gesture.

A widower, Shambhunath finds love in Manju Devi (Neena Gupta), a jail inmate whose life imprisonment sentence is nearing completion. Trouble brews when a new, extremely strict jailer (Kumud Mishra) takes charge. Matters escalate further with the presence of a notorious criminal (Akshay Dogra), the brother of a local MP, who constantly creates trouble inside the jail. He seeks to satisfy his lust through a newly jailed young woman (Yogita Bihani). Following an altercation between the jailer and the criminal, the latter is found absconding. Political pressure mounts, and an external investigating officer (Saurabh Sachdeva) is appointed to probe the case. Whether he succeeds in uncovering the truth behind the criminal’s disappearance forms the crux of the story.

The story and screenplay are imaginatively written, with the tension in each situation keeping the audience invested. Vadh 2 is a dark, slow-burning crime thriller that explores themes of guilt, justice, and morality, while subtly weaving in a love story within its intense narrative. The film thoughtfully examines corruption within the prison system, political interference, and the compassion and emotional bonds shared among inmates. Jaspal Singh Sandhu elevates the screenplay with meticulously placed interspersed incidents, enhancing the overall impact. The cinematography and background score effectively support the narrative and heighten the tension. Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta deliver exceptional performances—truly a masterclass in acting. Kumud Mishra, Saurabh Sachdeva, and Yogita Bihani provide strong support, adding depth to the story.

Overall, the director takes Vadh 2 a notch higher than its predecessor. The film is a compelling watch and a definite must-see for cinema lovers.

Rating: ★★★½