Emraan Hashmi-headliner Awarapan 2, a sequel to his 2007 cult-hit Awarapan, is now streaming on Prime Video about two months since its release. Directed by Nitin Kakkar, and also featuring Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Puran Gabbi, Vijayant Kohli, and Suvinder Vicky, the film released in theatres on August 14.
The film, boosted by Emraan’s fandom in the social media era, turned out to be the actor’s highest earning film. It made Rs 213 crore worldwide.
The film sees Emraan return as Shivam Pandit, the grief-stricken gangster who is still not over losing the love of his life Aaliyah (Shriya Saran). An untoward incident leads him back to the seedy underbelly of Bangkok where he has to save a loved one amid two warring crime factions, one led by Shabana Azmi and the other by Puran Gabbi.
Awarapan 2 has had a more favourable fate than its predecessor. The 2007 original, directed by Mohit Suri, although became a cult favourite over the years but when it released it could only amass a lifetime collection of Rs 7.75 crore.
When it comes to critics’ response, Awarapan 2 received a mixed bag. The film was appreciated for playing on the nostalgia but the story itself was less engaging for many. CE’s review of the film read: “Awarapan 2 stands on its own, eventhough its stance is wobbly. For the millennials there is a lot to cheer for. Hashmi is back in his brood, sporting rexine jackets over black vests. The Bangkok nightlife is gritty, grimy and neon-nostalgic, but what is missing is the depth of Shivam’s angst.”
