'Ek Villain Returns' Review: Arjun, John, Disha, Tara-starrer is a fast-paced thriller that is true to its genre

Director: Mohit Suri

Cast: Arjun Kapoor, Tara Sutaria, John Abraham, Disha Patani, JD Chakravarthy and others

Where: In theatres near you

Rating: 3 stars

Director Mohit Suri, who is popularly known for helming thrillers for the past so many years, brings yet another one from his successful franchise, 'Ek Villain Returns', that is palatable to the masses. The film is true to its genre that has great music, decent performances and shocking events.

Gautam Mehra (Arjun Kapoor), a rich spoilt brat, seeks revenge from Aarvi Malhotra (Tara Sutaria), an aspiring singer who creates a rap out of Gautam’s leaked heartbreak video. Aarvi eventually falls for Gautam, but he betrays her by exposing her step relationship with her father. Bhairav (John Abraham), a cab driver, falls for Rasika (Disha Patani), a salesgirl at a retail store. Things turn sour for Bhairav when he catches Rasika red-handed with her boss Atul one night.

On the other hand, ACP Ganeshan (Chakravarthy), who intervenes in a series of murders in the city, crosses his path with Gautam and Bhairav. But little do Gautam, Bhairav, Aarvi and Rasika know that their paths will also cross. Who is the real villain? What happens to the other three? These revelations form the rest of the story.

The trailer of the film holds a lot of promise, which also leaves you guessing what’s the truth behind this mysterious tale of love, betrayal and revenge but the film slightly disappoints in several places. However, director Mohit Suri keeps the momentum of rush, thrill and twists alive throughout. Since it’s a second instalment of the 'Ek Villain' franchise, Mohit tries too hard to match up the flavour of the first one. The interval point is nice, but the second half dips a bit and only picks up pre-climax.

There are times in the film when you try to find logic or connect the dots, but you might remain clueless. 'Ek Villain Returns' passes in its zone with flying colours. The interesting part of the film is its runtime which is 128 minutes, and a huge surprise just before the end credits.

Out of all four actors, Arjun Kapoor takes the cake easily. His arrogance, ignorance, frustration and agony of a helpless lover are commendable. Tara Sutaria, who disappointed viewers with her annoying presence in 'Heropanti 2' recently, manages to act somehow in this one. She is a tad bit better. John is stiff as wood. He looks aged too but is convincing enough in his action sequences. Disha Patani is the weakest of all. She only justifies her image as a glam doll and someone who knows how to expose her body well on screen.

The music is decent but not as good as the previous album. 'Galliyan', 'Humdard', 'Banjaara' and 'Awari' from 'Ek Villain' (2014) are still much loved and will always be.

'Ek Villain Returns' has surely returned but not with the vibe of the earlier one. Enjoy this film to experience a stylish thriller that copes well with the mass appeal.

Published on: Thursday, July 28, 2022, 11:00 AM IST