Singham Again review: Rohit Shetty’s action-packed retelling of Ramayan blends grandeur and predictability

Rohit Shetty’s latest cinematic venture, Singham Again, delivers an ambitious mix of action, mythological storytelling, and the director’s trademark grandeur. Part of Shetty’s larger-than-life cop universe, the film stars Ajay Devgn reprising his role as Bajirao Singham, while Kareena Kapoor Khan steps in as Avni, a contemporary Sita. The plot is set in motion when Arjun Kapoor’s Raavan abducts Avni, prompting Singham and his band of patriotic officers to set off for a mission to Sri Lanka to rescue her.

Joining the established cast are new entrants Deepika Padukone and Tiger Shroff, adding a fresh dynamic to the storyline. Despite the anticipation and a long trailer that revealed much of the film’s plot, Singham Again treads familiar ground and plays on the same notes of spectacle and heroism that fans of the franchise have come to expect.

Action and narrative strengths

From the beginning, the film positions itself as a grand, action-packed drama interwoven with the essence of the Hindu epic, Ramayan. Devgn’s portrayal as a modern-day Ram is powerful, while Kareena Kapoor Khan embodies a restrained yet compelling Avni. Ranveer Singh’s character injects humor into the narrative, often saving scenes that would otherwise fall flat due to their predictability. His comic timing and energy, often likened to a spark in a scene, are pivotal to keeping the momentum going in the second half.

Deepika Padukone and Tiger Shroff’s introductions are action-laden and visually reminiscent of their previous works. Padukone’s character carries hints of her role in Chennai Express, while Shroff’s entry could be seen as an extension of his Baaghi series, bringing in his expertise in Kalaripayattu. Despite their powerful entrances, these new characters are sometimes overshadowed by the overarching plot.

What falls short

The first half of Singham Again suffers from pacing issues and lacks the punch expected from a Shetty film. Even the sweeping shots of Kashmir and the high-octane SUV stunts struggle to create lasting impact. Arjun Kapoor, playing the menacing Raavan, falls short of embodying the depth and danger associated with his character. The villain’s sinister undertones are diluted, despite attempts at creating a dark, intense persona through wardrobe choices and background music.

Experts in the film industry, analyzing Singham Again, have pointed out that the narrative leans heavily on tropes familiar to Bollywood audiences. Critics note that while Shetty’s visual storytelling is spectacular, the storyline offers little novelty. Industry insiders believe that the film could have explored new dimensions within its mythological retelling to differentiate itself from Shetty’s previous works and other cinematic adaptations of Ramayan.

Visuals and the final act

The movie is not without its redeeming qualities. The final act, where the ensemble cast unites in a climactic showdown that mirrors an Avengers-style assembly, brings energy back into the film. This sequence is visually compelling and showcases Shetty’s mastery of orchestrating large-scale action set pieces. The signature aerial shots, saturated color palette, and carefully choreographed stunts ensure that the film maintains its grandeur.

However, while Singham Again excels in its presentation, it often prioritizes spectacle over substance. The plot feels recycled, and despite the impressive lineup of Bollywood heavyweights, the writing does not do justice to their potential. The film leaves audiences entertained but longing for a more innovative take on familiar tales.

Expert opinions highlight the need for originality

Film critics and audiences alike have echoed that while Singham Again stays true to Shetty’s blockbuster formula, it misses opportunities to break new ground. A film critic mentioned that though Ajay Devgn and Kareena Kapoor Khan deliver commendable performances, they are constrained by a narrative that does not utilize their range. The critic added that films such as Adipurush and animated adaptations of Ramayan have already explored the story, making Shetty’s version feel like a retread with an action spin.

Singham Again is a spectacle for fans of Rohit Shetty’s cinematic universe, delivering on its promise of action, comedy, and vibrant visuals. Yet, it falls short of being truly memorable due to its reliance on formulaic storytelling and lack of originality. While it remains an entertaining watch, especially with the charisma of Ranveer Singh, it ultimately struggles to set itself apart in a crowded genre.