Stree 2 review: Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor’s comical multiverse is PAISA VASOOL

Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor starrer Stree 2 full movie review & ratings: After a six-year gap, Stree 2 hits the screens, though not without its flaws. Click here to read!

Stree 2 full movie review and ratings: Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor’s comical multiverse is PAISA VASOOL (Credits: YouTube/Maddock Films)

New Delhi: Expectations are a burden, but you’d gladly shoulder them for Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor’s Independence Day release, Stree 2. The film technically premiered the night before the national holiday because “Stree raat ko aati hai! (Stree only comes at night).” From the moment you step into the cinema, you’re drawn back into the eerie charm of Chanderi. The floating chudail, chilling background score, and impeccable comic timing perfectly blend horror and humour. But is Stree 2 a ride worth taking? Read our review to know!

Stree 2 plot

Stree 2 picks up right where its predecessor ended – with the departure of the town’s chudail. However, the story continues with the return of Sarkata Danav, the entity responsible for creating Stree, who now hunts down ‘modern women.’ Six months after her exit, Chanderi has transformed into a vibrant feminist hub, that will give Barbie a run for their money. The city is thriving, joyously recounting the fable of Stree and Chanderi Ka Rakshak, Vicky (Rajkummar Rao). But a mysterious message, containing the missing pages from Chanderi-puran, heralds impending danger.

Vicky is preoccupied with his unrequited love for the ‘nameless’ Stree (Shraddha Kapoor). Neither his father nor his best friend, Bittu (Aparshakti Khurrana), understands his infatuation. However, Vicky must confront reality when girls in Chanderi start vanishing. This time, the threat targets the town’s ‘modern khayaalon ki ladkiyan’. So if you are on WhatsApp, use social media, listen to music or even like dancing then better beware of Sarkata.

With Jana (Abhishek Banerjee) back from his Bhediya break and the cultured Hindi-speaker Rudra (Pankaj Tripathi) by his side, the team is prepared to safeguard the town from Sarkate ka aatank.

Watch the trailer for Stree 2 below!

Stree 2 review

After a six-year gap, Stree 2 hits the screens, though not without its flaws. The first half of the film cruises along with the cast delivering their comedic best. However, the second half takes a dive into something that feels like Stranger Things territory, with women imprisoned in an alternate realm accessible through a Dr Strange-inspired portal.

While the climax may not have the explosive punch one might expect, the film compensates with cleverly placed cameos and a healthy dose of slapstick humour. These elements keep the film’s lively spirit intact, ensuring that Stree 2 keeps you hooked till the very end. If you’re after a mix of comedy and fantasy, this sequel still delivers a theatre experience.

Stree 2 cast: A win-win

In Stree 2, the casting is a masterstroke, with Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao steering the film with aplomb. The Aashiqui 2 star’s foray into action is a delightful surprise, though it’s a shame her role isn’t as prominent as it should be, given her pivotal place in the Stree universe. Rajkummar, ever the chameleon, effortlessly transitions from intense drama in Srikanth to this uproarious blockbuster.

Supporting performances are equally stellar, with Aparshakti Khurrana and Abhishek Banerjee delivering impeccable comic timing. And of course, Pankaj Tripathi’s snappy dialogues in ‘Shudh’ (fluent) Hindi ensure plenty of laughs throughout. The film’s dialogue never misses a beat, thanks largely to these standout actors who keep the humour flowing seamlessly. Stree 2 may have its quirks, but it’s the stellar cast that truly anchors this horror-comedy gem.

Where’s the flaw?

So, where’s the hiccup? Stree 2’s brisk pace leaves little time for digestion, though the comedy does its best to save the day. Still, the focus on the legendary tale of Stree feels somewhat lacking. It would have been brilliant if the creators had delved deeper into the folklore, balancing comedy with a bit more intrigue. (And of course, more jump scares if possible!)

Ultimately, you’re left with a slew of unanswered questions and a nagging urge for a full-blown flashback. Additionally, the jump scares are noticeably fewer compared to the first instalment in Maddock’s multiverse. Do not expect anything James Wan-level.

Watch Stree 2 because Bollywood buffs have been waiting for a decent comedy film!

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