Drishyam 2

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*Drishyam 2* (2022), directed by Abhishek Pathak, picks up where its predecessor, *Drishyam* (2015), left off, continuing the suspenseful and thrilling story of Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn) and his family. Set six years after the events of the first film, the Salgaonkar family is seemingly living a peaceful life, though haunted by the trauma of the past. Vijay’s elder daughter, Anju (Ishita Dutta), continues to suffer from epilepsy, a consequence of the guilt she feels for the murder of Meera Deshmukh's (Tabu) son. Meera, along with her husband Mahesh (Rajat Kapoor), is still relentlessly searching for justice and closure.

Enter Tarun Ahlawat (Akshaye Khanna), the new IG of Goa Police, who is determined to crack the case and bring Vijay to justice. Ahlawat’s shrewdness and persistence create a tense battle of wits between him and Vijay, with both men equally intelligent and determined. As the investigation intensifies, the Salgaonkars’ past comes back to haunt them, leading to unexpected twists and turns.

For viewers familiar with the original Malayalam films, *Drishyam 2* offers little new in terms of plot, as it follows the same narrative closely. However, the film will undoubtedly provide fresh thrills for those unfamiliar with the story, particularly in its shocking climax. The film relies heavily on suspension of disbelief, as Vijay is portrayed as more cunning and prepared than ever, anticipating every possible obstacle and finding solutions with ease. While this makes for an engaging thriller, it also stretches the plausibility of the narrative, as life, in reality, is far more unpredictable.

Despite the film’s implausibilities, it is the stellar performances that keep the audience hooked. Ajay Devgn’s portrayal of Vijay is masterful; he embodies the character with such conviction and sincerity that even the film's more unbelievable moments seem believable. Tabu, as the grieving and vengeful mother, delivers a standout performance, her anguish palpable in every scene. Akshaye Khanna, as the relentless police officer, adds an interesting new dynamic to the film with his quirky yet menacing presence. Rajat Kapoor, Shriya Saran, and Ishita Dutta also contribute solid performances, adding depth to the family drama.

Ultimately, *Drishyam 2* is a gripping thriller that leans heavily on its compelling performances and a plot filled with suspense and twists. While it may be a bit too convenient at times, it still manages to deliver a solid cinematic experience, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the Salgaonkar family’s journey.