Review : Stree 2: A Seamless Fusion of Laughter and Thrills!
In an era brimming with sequels, Stree 2 emerges as the latest addition, continuing the legacy of its 2018 predecessor. The original Stree, featuring Rajkumar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, was an unexpected triumph, pioneering the horror-comedy genre in Bollywood. Maddock Films, the force behind this cinematic universe, has since delivered a string of films in the genre, including Roohi, Bhediya, and Munjya. With Stree 2, director Amar Kaushik amplifies the scale and grandeur, crafting a film that, while not groundbreaking, delivers entertainment in spades.
The story picks up where Stree left off, plunging viewers back into the eerie world of Chanderi, where a new terror lurks: Sarkata, a fearsome headless demon who preys on the women of the village. Vicky (Rajkumar Rao) and his loyal band of friends, Rudra (Pankaj Tripathi), Bittu (Aparshakti Khurana), and Jana (Abhishek Banerjee), find themselves ensnared in this latest horror. Desperate, they seek the aid of Vicky’s enigmatic, supernatural girlfriend (Shraddha Kapoor). What unfolds is a rollercoaster of chills and laughs as they confront Sarkata’s terrifying presence.
Amar Kaushik skillfully intertwines the worlds of Stree, Bhediya, and Munjya, crafting a universe where horror and comedy collide. The screenplay, while fast-paced, occasionally drifts into the realm of the illogical, yet it succeeds in delivering consistent humor. The atmosphere, reminiscent of the original, if not more polished, sets the perfect stage for the unfolding drama. The one-liners land with precision, enhancing the comedic elements. The VFX, though competent, leaves room for improvement, while Sachin-Jigar’s music soars, with tracks like Aajki Raat, Aayi Nai, and Tumhare Hi Rahenge leaving a lasting impression. Uniquely, Stree 2 closes with two captivating end-credit songs—one a foot-tapping massy number, the other a swoon-worthy romantic ballad. The background score complements the narrative, though it occasionally verges on the overwhelming.
Rajkumar Rao once again proves his mettle with a stellar performance, while Shraddha Kapoor dazzles, particularly in the musical sequences, despite a screenplay that doesn’t fully harness her talents. Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana, and Abhishek Banerjee provide solid support, elevating the film’s comedic spirit. Tamannah Bhatia stuns with her beauty and captivating dance moves, and Akshay Kumar’s surprise cameo is sure to delight audiences. Varun Dhawan also makes a brief appearance, sharing a romantic song with Shraddha that is bound to resonate with fans.
Stree 2 is a delightful family entertainer, poised to charm children and female audiences alike, offering a perfect blend of humor, horror, and heart.
Rating : ***
By Keerti Kadam