Singham Returns

wogma rating: Watch but no rush (?)

quick review:

An action film which is actually trying to make a point through its story, even if it is an over-simplified one.

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Director: Rohit Shetty
Running time: 140 minutes
Genres: Action, Social
More Movie Info

Singham Returns - Preview

Come August 15, 2014, more cars will be blasted down to pieces, Ajay Devgn's muscles will re-flex, and police officers will have their conscience knocked at once again. Whether it'll be something different from what happened the first time around or not, we'll know soon. But for now the trailer says the story is going to repeat itself.

Only this time, Kareen Kapoor will replace Kajal Agarwal. Hah! Who am I kidding, like it matters! There is so much one can write in anticipation of a film that gives a feeling of cashing in on its predecessor's popularity.

My only hope, is that like Singham, it also does a little more than generate whistles and cheering. That's not too much to ask for I'm sure.

Music Reviews:
Bollywood Hungama - "2.5/5"
Milliblog - "Jeet and Ankit manage to salvage some music in Bajirao Singham’s life."

- meeta, a part of the audience

It is always fun to watch branded films like Singham Returns, whether or not you like the film ultimately. The audience is there to enjoy and I always enjoy their enthusiasm. This once, though there was an additional pleasure. First fifteen minutes into the film, and you know there is a serious attempt at developing a plot. Another half an hour or so in, when you hear one or two people clap and cheer and the rest of the audience joins in you realise that the viewers have been uncharacteristically quiet after the initial zeal. They were hooked to what was happening on screen. Unfortunately, this doesn't last through the film. There are dips, especially in the second half and the climax is a simple bummer.

Yet, Singham Returns started with an impact. In fact, it was a pleasant surprise to see subtlety in this form of cinema. There's a remark on an entire generation being responsible for the "anything goes" attitude of the current generation, especially with regard to corruption. Then, the "vote-buying" scene with the backdrop of a city skyline was a nice touch (even if executed tackily). And a few more alond similar lines.

The dialogue writing, especially in the first half is strikingly good. Even if some of it does get "filmy", a lot of it is delivered smoothly to appreciate both the dialogue delivery and the dialogue itself. At most times they are unexpectedly contextual, and at times they are even insightful/profound. But, of course, it loses steam in the second half.

The writer's passion for showing the hard-working, dutiful facet of the Mumbai police shines through. It's almost as if he takes the offense personally, when people try to bribe a policeman on the street. Not a single policeman is corrupt and they are all up in arms to do the right thing, even if it were at the risk of losing their beloved job. It is almost as if they are an official Union that has gone on strike so that people see the good in them.

I'm usually sympathetic towards women's role in films of this genre which have the woman just because there should be a woman, a necessary prop of types. But, while Singham Returns gives Kareena Kapoor more than her share of screen space, the quality her appearance makes you wish it hadn't. She is more like a romantic-cum-comic relief used to elongate the runtime of the film. The romantic track is too long for the theme of the film, is annoying because it is loud and over-done, out-of-place because it doesn't seem to have received the writer's attention when compared to the rest of the film. It felt like a chore that they needed to get out of the way. It is also loud, undoubtedly and unnecessarily. I'd love to see a quieter version of the film without the romance and the comedy for sure.

Somewhere on the top of the list of things that make the film loud is Kareena Kapoor. She is shrill and irritating and over-acting. This seems to rub off on other women characters even in the small bits they get like Constable Mahesh's wife and the woman from the slums who supports taking money from a political party for her vote. In comparison, the men seem to be in control. Even the caricature Godman baba that Amol Gupte plays looks mild in comparison, though by himself is over-the-top. Zakir Hussain too is appropriately arrogant and scared as a politician whose career is dependent upon which way the tide flows. In their midst is Ajay Devgn's soothing presence even if he doesn't emote much. Even so, each one of them has unmissable screen presence, including Ashwini Kalsekar who plays the over-enthusiastic journalist.

Setting aside the stretched romantic track and lame attempt at humor, even the action choreography and CGI seems half-hearted this time around. Except for a flying Ajay Devgn once in the entire film, there is no real attempt at adding an element of oomph to the action sequences. As difficult as I find it to believe, the focus is the story and the point its trying to make.

That brings me to what some of the regular readers here are waiting to read - It is a Rohit Shetty film, that is a little less like a Rohit Shetty film, because it is actually trying to make sense while trying to keep what one expects from a Rohit Shetty film alive. Fortunately, more of the earlier than latter.

- meeta, a part of the audience

35 reviewers(?) - 4 yays 23 so-so 8 nays

Warning: clicking on "full review" will take you to an external website that could contain spoilers.

Thumbs up, by Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama : ... On the whole, SINGHAM RETURNS is a complete mass entertainer with power-packed drama, hi-intensity dialogue and towering performances as its aces. The brand value attached to it coupled with a long weekend will help the film reap a harvest and rule the box-office in days to come. A sure-shot WINNER! ... full review

Thumbs up, by Sarita A Tanwar, DNA : ...If you are a Singham fan, you'll enjoy this one too. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Noyon Jyoti Parasara, Now Running.com : ...Singham Returns is a proof the director's vision. He deserves all the cheers. Watch it for all the entertainment that Rohit Shetty can bring into a film. From blowing cars, to dialogues to hilarious moments this one has all. My personal favourite - a scene where Kareena suddenly gets famous and a restaurant manager asks for a selfie. You cannot not enjoy Singham Returns... full review

Thumbs up, by Rummana Ahmed, yahoo! India : ...This is definitely the kind of masaledar police story where we are ready to overlook the indulgences and root for our tough cop Bajirao Singham.... full review

So-So, by Anna MM Vetticad, annavetticadgoes2themovies : ...A nip here, a tuck there, a tweak here, a touch there, and this could have been a much better and even a much more entertaining film. Those tweaks and tucks would have required more time invested in writing though, which perhaps was considered unnecessary in a film that could make money merely from resting on the laurels of its prequel. Ah well, as it is now, Singham Returns is good enough for a single watch. Fun but unremarkable and unmemorable, that’s what it is. ... full review

So-So, by Naresh Kumar Deoshi, Apun Ka Choice : ...What Shetty spares us on one front, he assaults us with on the other. Once the cars start exploding, there’s no let up. Gratuitous violence is as much foisted on us as the romantic track between Ajay Devgn and Kareena Kapoor. A few actions sequences do hit the mark and will be greeted with wolf whistles. The credit goes as much to Shetty as to Ajay Devgn, who, with his seething intensity and fiery eyes, makes Bajirao Singham roar again on the big screen. If you must, watch Singham Returns for Ajay Devgn.... full review

So-So, by Subramanian Harikumar , Bollywood Life : ...While Singham Returns is a must watch for every Rohit Shetty fan as the director dishes out a typical masala film, the ones who look for emotional connection with films may stay away from this Independence Day release. Watch it if you have nothing else to do this weekend.... full review

So-So, Daily Bhaskar : ...Singham Returns is an average film backed by good performances and action. Spending money on this Rohit Shetty’s film will not give you heartburns. But do keep your expectations in check. Those who loved Singham are likely to enjoy his return on the big screen.... full review

So-So, by Divay Agarwal, Desi Martini : ...Ajay as Singham shines but nothing else! Prakash Raj is deeply missed... full review

So-So, by Sidhant Shori, Desi Martini : ...Kickpuncher in bollywood form ... full review

So-So, by Rachit Gupta, Filmfare : ... Rohit Shetty has latched on to the craft of filmmaking and given us a great entertainer. The climax of the film is never-seen-before. It's good to see a young filmmaker trying to innovate and make films as much with the head as with the heart. For once a film deserves to be a blockbuster.... full review

So-So, by Deepanjana Pal, FirstPost : ...Except for that story to unfold, you'd need Singham to be capable of noticing subtlety and appreciating a woman who can bend the rules like he does. For now, all you get is Singham Returns, with its tinnitus-friendly, pro-fake encounters stance.... full review

So-So, by Swayamsrestha Kar, fullhyd.com : ... Singham Returns is an appropriate movie to watch on Independance Day. Because democracy is not a bed of roses after all, and sometimes, we need reminding. ... full review

So-So, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...Nevertheless, for a citizen dreaming of a nation free of corruption, honest police officers and the end of politicians who suck blood, a visit to the multiplex will give you that feel... So what if it is only for 142 minutes!!! ... full review

So-So, by Anupama Chopra, Hindustan Times : ...The weakest link is the tedious romantic angle between Ajay and Kareena Kapoor, who plays his gluttonous girlfriend. Kareena’s beauty is startling, but here she’s not even attempting to act. Despite these soft spots, Ajay keeps the film moving. I was cheering for Singham, but ultimately his solutions are downright dangerous. I don’t want to tell you what happens, but it made me very uneasy.... full review

So-So, by Rajiv Masand, IBN Live : ...There's also Kareena Kapoor as Singham's love interest, in a track that quite frankly feels unnecessary in the larger scheme of things. The usually dependable actress looks lovely, but the film doesn't require her to so much as break into a sweat to get through her scenes. It's Ajay Devgan alone, who keeps the film from falling apart, as the plot becomes increasingly facile. He's in terrific form as the tough cop with a soft heart, and he displays that quality remarkably, particularly in one scene where he's confronted by the desperate mother of an erring son.... full review

So-So, by Faheem Ruhani, india today : ...Singham Returns has enough one liners and ample maar-dhaad, choreographed stunningly for all those who loved Singham. If you are looking for anything more you will be disappointed.... full review

So-So, by Vinayak Chakravorty , india today : ...Stronger writing could still have redeemed the plot but Singham Returns moves from a laboured first half to a lifeless second. Sporadic shots at drama are drowned by the film's preachy tone. No attempt is made to understand just what the black money problem is all about. Rohit Shetty better stick to making nonsensical films. They sure make more sense than his sensible ones. ... full review

So-So, by Saurabh Dwivedi, india today : ...Singham Returns follows Bajirao (yet again) as he fights the corrupt. The film's message: action on the spot. While the idea itself is novel, scenes showing cops fighting on the streets sends the wrong message, in my opinion.... full review

So-So, by Rohit Khilnani, india today : ...The dream team of Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn delivers a good entertainer. It's for fans of brand Singham and I'm sure they are all out there in large numbers. ... full review

So-So, Indicine : ...Singam returns has eonugh mass pleasing elements to make it a huge success at the box office. A more powerful villain and more convincing climaxwould have considerably enhanced its impact.... full review

So-So, by Mohar Basu, koimoi : ...Singham Returns doesn’t match up to Singham and that is the failure of this franchise venture. It is definitely a very watchable film with Ajay putting in his best foot forward in a role that brings out his caliber to the fullest but for those who are expecting a Rohit Shetty fun watch, this film is neither immensely entertaining or superbly enjoyable. The action doesn’t offer anything new and the drama is too superficial for my taste. It is just about average and that too only for its lead man whose swagger rules the show in this one. I am going with a 2.5/5 for Singham Returns. Aata Majhi Satakli? Yeah, dude. Mine too. Ditto!... full review

So-So, by Shubha Shetty-Saha, MiD DAY : ...Rohit Shetty's cleverest moment comes when his hero after having witnessed the most expensive SUVs turn to ashes, has a humble, kind of apologetic tiny personal car, thus subtly highlighting his clean conscience. The rest of the film is not so subtle. Watch it if you are an action junkie or an Ajay Devgn fan. ... full review

So-So, by Joginder Tuteja, Movie Talkies : ...As for the winning part, the film is all set to cover a good distance as it is a template affair which guarantees huge opening and steady audience at single screens at the least. While it would comfortably turn out to be a winner, for 'Brand Singham' it could well have been a lot bigger and powerful.... full review

So-So, by Sonia Chopra, Sify Movies : ...This is a Rohit Shetty film, and that should be a genre in itself. You'll get a film full of violence and a simplistic plot, that's still watchable (even entertaining at times) for the actors, the few moments of genuine conflict and romance, and the earnest representation of the hero's angst. Worth a watch, if you can be patient with the trappings of a formula film. ... full review

So-So, by Madhureeta Mukherjee, Times of India : ...Amol Gupte is perfectly cast, leaving an impact with a superb, killer performance. Kareena Kapoor (as Avni) playfully romances her sher, slipping in some laughs and clicking 'selfies' as Lady Singham. Kher is good even in a brief role. Devgn digs his claws into this part with more vengeance and power, delivering a knockout act. ... full review

So-So, by Ritika Handoo, Zee News : ...'Singham Returns` is a depiction of power-play and dirty politics which meddles in the way of dutiful Mumbai Police, but only to be met with an end like that of Swamiji and Prakash Rao. Actor Ajay Devgn shines as a tough cop and we do like his way of `encountering` the culprits. For `Singham` fans, here is a bonus for you and a good way to celebrate independence day. Thumbs up for this film—else `Ata Majhi Satakli`!... full review

Thumbs down, by Bobby Sing, Bobby Talks Cinema.com : ...So ending with a request to the reputed film-makers, the trend of sequel is acceptable only if the Part Twos and Threes have something novel, better and substantial to give to the viewers expecting a lot. Therefore please make any sequel only when you have got some newness to add to the hit concept, otherwise let it be.... full review

Thumbs down, by Deepa Gahlot, cinemaah : ...After the film is over, the brain can be restarted, tested for noise damage and life be resumed with no memory of the film just watched.... full review

Thumbs down, by Sushmita Murthy, Deccan Chronicle : ...A few goofy dialogues coming at an unprecedented time from the least expected people may take you through till end - if you hadn't already given up at the point where the baba pours himself a drink before choking a devotee to death, that is.... full review

Thumbs down, by Inspector VIjay, Desi Martini : ...Nowhere close to the first one, this ones a major letdown. ... full review

Thumbs down, by FPJ Bureau, Free Press Journal : ...Sajid-Farhad’s dialogues and Yunus Sajawal’s script lack originality. Even Dudley’s camerawork which was the Hallmark of the first, appears clueless... full review

Thumbs down, by Divya Solgama, MoviezADDA : ...Well, there is some good dum in the form of action and couple of dramatic moments. Besides these few enjoyable moments, the movie is a drag and boring. Till the last scene one keeps hoping that the movie might get the magic and entertainment factor of 'Singham' back, sadly it ends up being another extended flick on the line of 'Dabangg 2', where the lovable characters are there but you don't seem to love them anymore. The movie is a total rehash of 'Singham' but not even one fourth amount of the fun and entertainment factor. Singham means lion and in the movie 'Singham' it was roaring and powerful, but this time it ends up being as a circus lion, which keeps repeating its trick on the whip of the ringmaster without any power or fierceness attached to it.... full review

Thumbs down, by Saibal Chatterjee, NDTV : ...Singham Returns has a fair sprinkling of angry wisecracks that might draw spontaneous whistles and loud claps from those that love violent fights to the finish... full review

Thumbs down, by Raja Sen, Rediff : ...hootout after shootout takes place and people get killed but in the end it’s all down to Singham getting into Hulk mode and mowing down everyone single-handedly. How terrific it’d be if he just, like The Hulk said in The Avengers, stayed eternally angry? Or is that just our role as critics who have to spend their mornings at these movies?... full review

115 tweeters(?) - 82 yays 8 so-so 25 nays

Zubair__Amjad: Watched singham returns.i must say indeed an awesome movie......!

WICIWIT: Empire Cinemas Columbia Park 12! Singham Returns is pure entertainment. WICIWIT Rating 4/5. A must see Bollywood... https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=329454650562317

VWellwishers: OMG! singham returns earned so much! i mean d biggest opener of 2014! dis is unbelievable! even more dan KICK! wow! btw its a nyc movie!

vivekku93868457: Just saw Singham Returns it was mind blowing action really# definitely it will be block buster movie of dis year.....

VishnuDpatil: A MUST WATCH... FIGHT AT NO.1 SINGHAM RETURNS IN THEATERS PAISA WASOOL http://twitter.com/VishnuDpatil/status/500617027787038720/photo/1

Vishal_FilmBuff: Singham Returns and how.. proves when a superstar aspires to connect to it's target audience... there is no stopping

valliappan10: Singham Returns – Enjoyable...! - Bubblews http://www.bubblews.com/news/5735758-singham-returns-enjoyable via @GoBubblews

Valayism: Glad that Singham Returns was more entertaining than your jokes on it.

TheGurjot: Singham Returns was an amazing movie!

thebhagyashree: I really enjoyed Singham Returns!! & yes Ajay Devgan ws bang on as bajirao singham..& Kareena ws really sweet nd lukd really beautifl!!

thakurkunalkum1: so,happy on the success of the "singham returns" .

taparrahul: Singham Returns is an awesome movie.Paisa wasool.....must watch....@ajaydevgn

taapsee: I must admit, Singham Returns is a full paisa vasool seeti maar movie! High point being "Dhaya darwaaza tod do". Mazaa aa gaya by god!

SuriyaMasss10: Singham Returns is the definition of Mass just like Singam 2 good job @ajaydevgn and Rohit Shetty

SubirP: Watched Singham returns. Good movie I must say.

snubpollard: Singham Returns is definitely the Winter Soldier of the Singham franchise.

smartgulshan: Yesterday I watched singham returns yeah..really nice. and i like.

simply_shipra: Singham Returns. Awesome movie!

SiddhuHamppagol: I must admit, Singham Returns is a full paisa vasool seeti maar movie! High point being "Dhaya darwaaza tod do". Mazaa aa gaya by god!

SharmaTridev: Awwchm movie ... Singham returns . Hm ne ek e din m apna sab kuch kho dia ,us din hmne jana ki kismat kitni... https://www.facebook.com/Sharmatheloverboy/posts/659212494186526

sanjaygangahar: Singham returns with some important dialogues in marathi language , very much enjoyed . Bravo Rohit shetty.

SanaASurti: Singham returns has kinda similar plot as its prequel. Dialogues very good and a decent watch. Kareena has got more role than Kajal Aggarwal

Saganjot: #Singham_Returns: The Best Movie Ever Seen Based On Politics.. Indian_Police.. #Media.. Casteism.. Corruption.. Black_Money.. Fake_Babas...

SabinNair: Singham returns! It's seems ajay devgn has enjoyed playing counter strike! Awesome movie though! #singhamreturns #fun #movies #banglore

rsthefan: Abe y kya charlie ki toh ajay devgan ne bhi maarli.. Singham returns a must watch movie. BAJIRAO TIME To Rule.

richa4truth: Singham Returns ! Amazing action sequences ! 2D mein 3D effect... Rohit Shetty hee de sakta hai ! Awesone trolly... https://www.facebook.com/richa.srivastava.355/posts/10204239577926419

rethinkingin: Live #news : Singham Returns review: Exactly like the first, but with Kareena and more action

real_tanisham: #LatePost... When to see Singham Returns fantastic movie guys i recommended :D #leftbabyathome

rakshitad03: Singham Returns ! Must Watch ! Thrilling.. Loved it #SinghamReturns

RaeesfanRaj: Singham Returns. Very entertaining. Ajay Devgan's film. Would be same whether the heroine was Kareena Kapoor or Rakhi Sawant." LOL ;D

PVSKRISHNAN: SINGHAM RETURNS is a complete mass entertainer with power-packed drama hi intensity dialogues & towering performances.

prakash_ash: Successful Movie with Rohit Shetty Jameen, Golmal Series, All the Best, Singham 1 and Singham Returns, and Bol Bachchan. #SinghamReturns

pdparticle: "Singham Returns" was a good movie!

PDange: Hey guys Singham Returns is must watch !! Happy weekend....

ParnashD: Singham returns was such a fab film.. m quiet exicted..

pareshp94866251: Congrats on your Singham returns. U r my favorite dude. Bye from Paresh patel Canada

nishila41: Singham returns great movie released on the glorious day of country.

niroj88: I will give singham returns-5stars/*****

niketapatell: Singham Returns >>>

mustafamillwala: Singham Returns is truly a Rocking movie! Commercial Blockbuster Written all over it!!!

Millydeee: IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN SINGHAM RETURNS GO WATCH IT RN BC ITS FUCKING AMAZING. ROHIT SHETTY AND THE CAST SLAYS

MDMONIR56766857: what a film singham returns is! Great, fantafabulously outstanding performance of ajay devgn. Rohit is one if the hit machines of bollywood

mdkaifansari: must movie hai singham returns.....

maaz333: Singham returns good time pass movie from rohit shetty. Best part CID's Daya in the movie. Atta maaji satakli..! Lmao.!!

LifeBwoy: Singham returns awesome movie. Missed jaykaant shikhre and gotya.

kunj_desai: Watched singham returns ! Nice one...

kirthana_me: Anjaan was a disappointment but Singham returns made up for it 'ata maji satakali' full entertainment!

kiranchavda61: amasing singham returns

king_sadashiva: Too Much Loud action in singham returns has got me a head ache.....but i liked the film...

KhushiBhattDvn: Singham Returns is a Amazing movie <3

KhiladiBhaiyya: Go n Watch Singham Returns

khedekarnikhil: After a totally entertaining sequel like Singham Returns, i wonder if the 3rd one would be Singham Rises. Lol :P

Karishma_rawat: Singham returns was sooo goodd !!!

JivanPatil05: Singham Returns Superhit.........

Jainism14: Singham Returns...... nice movie, http://twitter.com/Jainism14/status/500658821736321025/photo/1

Its_DkBoss: Singham Returns is really awesome

iPrasenjit_M: Watched Singham Returns last day.. Superb work .. Grt concept. Loved it.. #AataMajhiNehiSatkel . @ajaydevgn Rocked.

impalkushah: singham returns superb movie....interval

iammskofficial: Singham: Returns best movie..

iamhs555: .Amzing Film...Singham Returns..Waah Rohit Shetty....Kjo Removed Frm my List....and u added. *Have mari fari* Gujju Boy Roxx..!!

happygy0007: Ohhh..wow really interesting #singham returns

golden_kmr: singham returns is a mindblowing movie.action sequens is brilliant and i want say no one catch ajay devgn in police uniform. hatsoff.

gauravdagaonkar: Watched Singham returns...total entertainment! @ajaydevgn kicks ass as always! Fire and brimstone!

GAURAVBHATKAR4: Just Watched Singham Returns, Theatre Mai Public Ki Siitti Rukhte He Nahi!!! 1k No

Feeling_Sarcasm: If You Want Real Entertainment On This Sunday Then Go For 'Entertainment' & 'Singham Returns' xM xP!! :P

faysalsalyana: Singham Returns was superb.commercial yet logical.engaging storyline nd thrilling action..

FarahatAli: Last night I watched singham returns.... Once again great respect for polic department...great job by Rohit shetty'

fahdrules: Tusi cha gaye badshahoo.. Luv #singham returns.. Fully entertained.. Luv ajay n kareena.. Another blockbuster by # rohit..

desireepesso: Singham Returns. Just wow. Max known places covered from Mumbai also decent story, great action n famous dialogue. Aata mazhi satkali

dealwithdhal: SIngham Returns ya my type of movie completley. Thumbs Up!!!!!!!!!!! 9.5/ 10 rating.

dangare_vaibhav: Singham returns is wonderful movie

cric_champ: Singham returns tomorrow 2nd time ;-)

chhaviraina: Singham Returns with a Bang! Its Bigger.. Louder.. Not better but surely a paisa vasool entertainer..! #SinghamReturns

bricksville: Watched " Singham Returns " Awesome Picture ☺

bhinder_h: What a movie Singam Return, it Deserve to make Records huge records

asammufc: Singham returns was good @ajaydevgn is a top acto r

anshul9075: कुत्ते को घी और चोर को इज़्ज़त कभी हज़म नहीं होती ! Singham #Returns superb..

anjalichauhan2: SINGHAM RETURNS awesomeeee !

ani_blongs2u: Singham returns Awesome movie @ajaydevgn u're too good &So isKareena @rohitshettyfilm Should have a special free screening for Mumbai police

amol_ar: Nice movie singham returns... Nice role play ajaydevgan kareena and daya. Nice make movie rohit sheety

9106aswin: Shllpa shetty lauds Rohit shetty's `Singham Returns' on twitter,calls it`entertaining'........

77786riashaikh: Singham returns ***** full marks its a phenomenal movi ajay sir wow ya kp it up it is such a awesome movi

srirameragam: Singham returns is a time pass movie , it is the perfect example of easy way of earning money

MoviePlanning: Singham Returns has got its heart in the right place but is not engaging enough to leave the desired impact. Pretty watchable nonetheless.

moterwala11: Loved Singham Returns . Totally mass entertainer . Not so logical but still lovable and action packed ! 3 stars / 5

MAHIfrwholelyf: Just out from inox.Singham returns is aberage!

JuniorAkki: Singham >>>> Singham returns..... 2.5/5

hridoybiku46: #singham returns ...5 out of 10.

dgbvishal2: watched singham returns.. thik movie hai..

bungcha007: singham returns semi hit hoga

vrk_i: ###Singham returns, he never returned as far as the Originality was concerned ####

Vaishali_Jaykar: What a faaltu movie Singham Returns.

UniqueIdiot_: Singham returns, but the question remains, why?

SlackerKrazy: Why so much of fuss about Singham returns? I felt it just like any other mediocre movie :/

s_almoqaiseeb: I'm Surprised That Ppl Actually Liked Singham Returns !! I Totally Hated It Lol ..

Ruchir1608: Singham returns shouldn't have returned #SinghamReturns

rohitdashora: Ajay Devgan movies as a cop best to worst.. Gangajal > Singham > Singham Returns

rjrohit6545: Both Entertainment and Singham Returns are Pathetic movies. Taran Adharsh should stop reviewing the movies. ...

riddhishah77: #singham returns lacks the punch. ..#Singham was much better

Raj_akkiaddict: Watched Singham Returns....Headache

nikhilbhagat3: kya bakwas movie hai singham returns ..........

nadimTweets: Singham returns ek bakwas movie hai !!!

meson0: I don’t know who is to blame but racism in Indian Cinema has always been there and seeing it again in Singham Returns really burns me inside

Masakali_: RT if you watched Singham Returns and regret it.

luckysaluja: Very soon singham returns will return from the theatre. Lose screenplay...no story line..time waste.

kingptd: Sorry..Rohit Shetty...I did not liked Singham returns....:(....too much actions....pace....bad direction....

KabirTaneja: Good morning all. Short review of Singham Returns: Don't watch it.

iambaqar: Singham returns What a bekar movie :@

hippyboxx: Singham Returns. Audience doesn't.

harshraj81: With Singham returns Daya has one more door added to the 5000 doors which he has broken in his professional career. Terrible movie.

dhankudenyk: Singham returns please friends return home!! Movie not worth

DayakaranSingh: Singham Returns action sequences is not good, I expected better from Rohit Shetty.

callmeShahh: Singham returns koi inteha ki ghatia movie #rohitShitty

boxofficeindia: Delhi-UP ALL TIME TOP 20 FIRST DAY; #SinghamReturns @ 3 http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/delhi-up-all-time-top-20-first-day-singham-returns-3/

_SanaSharma: Singham Returns review: Wear earplugs to tolerate the new Devgn film

8 readers - 5 yays 2 so-so 1 nays

Want to Watch, by Tejash Agarwal : 70

Want to Watch, by TimELiebe : Ajay Devgn, Action Hunk? Yes, please!

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Anuj

Yay! Thumbs Up, by arun

Yay! Thumbs Up, by DjZedd : One of the Best Movie of 2014, 5 Star out of 5 from me

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Fan : A normal lion is quite dangerous. imagine what an injured lion can be!!

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Kishore

So-So, by guddu : Singham Returns

So-So, by KARAN : Idea Popcorn Street presents Raju Ban Gaya Director – A chance to work with Imtiaz Ali, Ranbir Kapoo

Nay! Thumbs Down, by nirmal

This page has additional observations, other than the ones noted in the main review.

Plot Summary

The police take it upon themselves to rid the city of corrupt politicians and their network.

What Worked

  • The T-shirts given to baba (Amol Gupte)
  • The fact that the villain himself is a cold-blooded murderer instead of instructing someone to kill.
  • Usage of Marathi.
  • Geeta vs. sections from the IPC. Hilarious!
  • Use of Gulmohar flowers in the song.
  • The choreographic movements of the black vans that are after the police cars.
  • The fact that the college students from the first sequence weren't given some extra-heroic thing to do in the end and they stay in character.
  • Diet coke in van for the arrested women!

What did not

Note: This section simply lists the things that I did not like in this movie. This is not the overall impression about this movie. Please read the full review here

  • Action sequences looked like a video game of incessant gunshots, with no creativity whatsoever.
  • Bodies of all the dead people after the action sequence are on the side of the road as if making way for the cars to come.
  • Songs.
  • In a scene where there is so much chaos and everyone is running around, one police officer knows exactly where Ajay Devgn is and looks at him to give a signal.

Nitty-Gritty

This section lists things that I think are not important to the overall impact of the movie. In most cases, it could be explained away by something like, "we noticed the glitch after the scene was shot and there were schedule/budget issues and thus we could not re-shoot it". I like giving the makers the benefit of doubt, but I am amused nevertheless. Hopefully, they will tickle you too.

This section lists things that I think are not important to the overall impact of the movie. In most cases, it could be explained away by something like, “we noticed the glitch after the scene was shot and there were schedule/budget issues and thus we could not re-shoot it”. I like giving the makers the benefit of doubt, but I am amused nevertheless. Hopefully, they will tickle you too. - While Ashwini Kelsekar (journalist) is looking right into the camera when she's being shot. The TV shows her looking at an angle. Slightly distracting.

Parental Guidance:

  • Violence: Loads of gun fights and fist-fights.
  • Language: Clean
  • Nudity & Sexual content: Mention of rape a couple of times, and a Godman eyeing his female devotees. Else, nothing sexually explicit or implicit.
  • Concept: The power of numbers, the power of the common man, the power of doing the right thing even if doing it in the wrong way.
  • General Look and Feel: Loud and brash.

Detailed Ratings (out of 5):

Direction:
Story:
Lead Actors:
Character Artists:
Dialogues:
Screenplay:
Music Director:
Lyrics:

Comments (36)

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Fan

Waiting impatiently. Plus Amol Gupte joins the team, should be fun to watch.

Well, I don't know HOW I missed SINGHAM, Meetu!

Guess I know what my Indian-movie loving friends are watching this weekend…. :)

Sounds like a movie I'll rent out once it's on DVD here in the US.

@Fan I hope so too!

@TimELiebe Oh wow! How come? Especially considering you like Ajay Devgn. So, how did your crew like it?

Fan

Seats are reserved for Friday night show. Somebody might say that mazi satakli but the effect of first instalment is such that the expectation for the second outing is sky high.

Kishore

Meetu, its very very very evident that you dont like Ajay Devgn and u are a good good larger than life movies fan like YJHD, OSO etc. Let me tell u your rating for HNY .. a min 4/5 ... sure !!

We didn't get the DVD from Netflix yet, Meetu - so instead we watched BOMBAY TALKIE. I'm not sure how that was a tribute to a Century of Indian Cinema, but it was entertaining enough….

And we won't be seeing anything for the next few weeks, as everybody but me will be off at a retreat. Maybe SINGHAM will have shown up by then….

Fan

Watched it. And my verdict? First real blockbuster of 2014. Lived up to all my sky high expectations. Thus if you would go without any expectations then you should get the time of your life. If you liked the 2011 instalment then you should LOVE this.

My review: tomorrow some time.

Anuj

OUTSTANDING entertainer. Would definitely be Ajay Devgan's biggest hit of his life and should easily cross the 150 cr mark.

@Fan : Yeah this one's the first Blockbuster of 2014 since KICK is a Mega Blockbuster @ 210 cr and counting :P

Fan

@Anujj: Kick and Jai Ho didn't have content, only star poeer. Singham returns has equally matchable star power as Kick and in addition a solid content.

Anuj

@Fan : If that's the case then Singham Returns should go ahead and Dhoom 3 and become the highest grosser ever! Which it won't...calling Ajay D's(with due respect to him) star power at par with that Salman/Aamir/SRK/Hrithik is an absolute joke. H'es struggled all through his career and its just the lat 3-4 years that he's had tasted consistent success all thanks to Rohit Shetty who indeed is a superstar director and is well on his way to become the Manmohan Desai of our generation.

Anuj

*go ahead OF Dhoom 3

Had it been Salman Khan movie Meetu would have denounced it "Switch channels if it's in cable" or "Even the keen wait for DVD". However i do agree with your review to some extent, i found the film too predicate and routine. It's all usual bash up, punches, nerve chuckles and cars toppling each other in explosion muddled up together to make a film that allows our Hero alias "Singham" to manifest his upright honest benevolent cop. The chemistry between Kareena and Ajay was absolute boredom whilst Amol Gupte as a fraudulent baba was the worst villainous performance i ve seen in years. I don't understand why Rohit Shetty went on to include some much of media references in the film; perhaps he was taking a jibe with critics who usually thrash his work and therefore we had a "Barkha Dutt" type new reporter :P . That said the movie is palatable intermittently, the overall execution is a relentless sequence of events and actions that seems forced in the script. On the contrary it deserves a watch and will successful amass good revenues at the box office.

Fan

One of the signs of a good director is his/her ability to reinvent himself/herself. To adapt, to surprise, to offer something different. And that is exactly what Rohit Shetty has done with Singham returns. Other than the cavalcade of identical SUVs cruising on dirt roads there is no other Shetty signature. Yet the film is entertaining and you don't miss the flying cars or flying bad men.

Singham, strengthened with the arrival of Daya, continues his job diligently from part one. Completely incorruptible, extremely human in treatment of innocent culprits, intense looks, and the proud Marathi manoos - Ajay Devgn as Signham is respect personified. Caught up in the dirty electioneering politics of India, fighting allegations of corrupt colleagues, and in between whatever time is available trying to escape marriage (once again) from a Jab We Met pre-interval part Kareena Kapoor.

The story is sufficiently alright to keep the goings on interesting - although it does dip a little bit post interval. Every actor fits quite well in the character they are supposed to portray. Mumbai is shown in some magnificent scenes - the director of photography certainly gets my full marks.

Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn combination is shaping up gradually to be a modern day Manmohan Desai and Amitabh Bachhan combination. Manmohan Desai touch is completed with a major portion of the film dedicated to Mahim Dargah's importance and scenes in that locality and community. Of course, they had no bearing (logical or otherwise) to the story - plugged in there in typical MD style for inter-religion integration.

Action sequences, for a Rohit Shetty film, are much calmed down - especially compared to gravity defying rib breaking stunts of Signham. Rohit, it would seem, wants to give a message that he is capable of doing less OTT films - and can be a real entertainer.

Ajay Devgn gives a stellar performance - continuation of what he did in part one.

The romantic track could have been avoided, or at least the lighter moments should have been reserved for later in the script just to break the tension building up (in case such breaks are required).

Amol Gupte's character is funky. Imagine showing a religious baba in private moments sporting a t-shirt with "Dope Chef" as text printed on it, and wearing shorts.

Blasts from past: We are given a glimpse of “Tavde” , assuming he is the same one from the first instalment (probably lost his job at the cycle company and is now a rickshaw driver). The "aata majhi satakli" moments were very few, and the "aali re aali" happened only once. Missed the equivalent of the BPL to the corrupt neta, every time I see it from the first part I feel extremely proud – never understood. Despite few repeats from the first part, the audience in the theatre where I saw the film were certainly into the film and story. I was surprised when they whistled at the aerial shot of the entire Mumbai police force marching on the streets to protest against the unnecessary interference of politicians in police affairs. Certainly did not expect whistles then, but then it goes to show how Rohit Shetty is able to catch the nerve of our paying audiences.

Humour is limited, as in part one. Although there was an unintended humorous moment [paragraph deleted because it gives away a scene of the film.]

I found the film being heavily influenced by the recently concluded Indian Lok Sabha elections and the media circus that accompanied the elections. Nothing against that, but worth it to mention it.

Finally, a note of disapproval. A respected and responsible film-maker should portray a good story whilst remaining within the boundaries of established law. Showing extra judicial killings, glorifying them, are not a sign of a responsible film-maker. It gives an extremely incorrect message to the gullible youth that it is cool to bump off people whom you believe are bad and evil. Let us not use films to promote anarchy in our society. Role of police is helping the executive arm of the government, and it should be respected in films too, and at least should not be glorified. Judiciary is best left to the courts, even with their known deficiencies.

Overall: Rohit Shetty has delivered a sure shot hit, at the same time moving away quite a bit from his typical style. He has come up with a reasonably interesting and contemporary plot to keep the youth engaged. On the other hand the story does not have sufficient twists and turns to give you the jaw dropping moments. Action sequences are more down to earth, car explosions are extremely limited, humour sprinkled here and there, songs are alright, Mumbai highlighted in an almost never before seen way. If you liked Singham, then you would certainly like the Return. Although tastes may vary on whether the original was better or the new one is better. Instead of comparing, just enjoy each of the Singhams.

Adam

As stated in the review itself, this is a Rohit shetty film and this director is fast becoming one of the biggest directors of our age. He has become critic proof and has proven that he can make blockbusters with Ajay and SRK. His real test should be to make a movie with a new talent like Siddharth, Varun, Aditya, Shahid or Ranveer and see if he can create the same magic.
@Fan, I don't think anybody would bet with Ajay against, AK, SRK or SK. The Khans are just too big for him. He tried taking on SRK in 2012 with Son of Sardar and lost with majority of the theater owners going with SRK. On the other hand, he still has a small chance against Hrithik but Hrithik has age on his side whereas Ajay is close to 50. In my opinion, all these starts from the 90s who are approaching 50 will have a real tough time to maintain their looks and body in the next 4-5 years. Akshay and Ajay are already looking haggard, SRK is made up like a doll with lots of make up, AK and Salman are looking good so far. if Hrithik signs up with good directors, he should be ruling for the next 5-6 years. It's only a matter of time that big directors start making movies with the new talent.

Fan

@Adam: Yash Raj used monopolistic practices to force Son of Sardar out of theatres. They used the Ek Tha Tiger release of 15/8 to force their other product down the throats of us poor hapless audiences. Only 25% of screens were available to SoS.

Despite that, with only 1/3 screens available, Son Of Sardar earned the same amount of money as the Yash Raj product. So don't let Son Of Sardar be a yardstick for star popularity.

As regards aging, I do agree that the Khans are aging, and with the exception of Amir who has successfully experimented with various different roles, the SRK and ilk will be finding it extremely difficult to compete against younger and better looking generation if they try to vye for same roles as they are currently doing.

Ehinome Okojie

Yes we all know how films of AD (Ajay Devgn) sorry Ajay Devgun (Chingum master) like Himmatwala and Satyagraha broke all records in India and Overseas to become blockbusters reason no YRF to exploit them. So much fun.

ehinome okojie

Chennai Express
Day 1 - 31.27 cr
Day 2 - 28.05 cr
Day 3 - 31.70 cr
Weekend - 91.02 cr
Singham Returns
Day 1 - 31.82 cr
Day 2 - 19.89 cr
Day 3 - 24.87 cr
Weekend - 75.52 cr

Reason for big day 1 for Singham Returns Avearage trailer of Happy (Crappy) New Year.

Ehinome Okojie

Do not be misled
Son of Sardaar 1677 theatres - 105 cr
Jab Tak Hai Jaan 1702 theatres - 121 cr
3 Idiots 1149 theatres - 202 cr
Any one saying lack of screens is an important factor in underperformance of above two films is a misleader.

ehinome okojie

Singham Returns targets 169cr at domestic box office. Just remembered Stallione likenened Singham to Rambo.

Ehinome Okojie

Happy New Year with imdb rating of 3.6/10 will break all records in India, get ready for the washing machine dwelling losers known as Indiawaale gang this Diwali, 325cr club is waiting for crappy film.

Fan

From the first looks of hny, it looks like a spaghetti mix of Dhoom2, and now you see me.

Superb movie except the unnecessary role of kareena kapoor and happy new year trailer in interval.

@TimELiebe Good luck!

@Kishore It's funny, how you think I don't like Ajay Devgn and another reader thinks I rated it high because it is not a Salman Khan film. I have no clue how these conclusions came about.

@guddu and there's another reader who thinks I don't like Ajay Devgn. *sigh* What is one supposed to do?

Adam

@Meetu - you mention that you have no bias but can you please tell me what it means when your rating states - "No rating applies to a Salman Khan movie! It's a Salman khan movie plus more!" This clearly shows that your ratings are pre-judged and biased based on who is acting in the movie. If stars depended on getting rave reviews from critics, they would all be struggling for survival like Naseeruddin shah, Om puri, Akshaye Khanna etc. No star can satisfy the critic as well as be commercially dependable. The only star that comes close is Aamir Khan and even he was ridiculed for Dhoom 3 by your fraternity. I am not a big fan of Salman khan but I do enjoy a good movie like Dabangg and kick. Hence, I am a huge fan of entertaining movies and not stars. Pls review a movie on content rather than the star!

Anuj

However hard they try, the fact remains that Ajay and Akshay will always remain inferior to the Khans' and Hrithik in terms of film viewership and audience popularity. Singham Returns (170 cr approx.) and Rowdy Rathore (130 cr in 2012 viz appeox 160 cr today) is the best that these guys can deliver while the Khans' have already crossed 200+ comfortably with mediocre films carrying average word of mouth (CE,D3,Kick etc). Hrithik too came extremely close to 200 despite Krrish 3 too carrying an extremely mixed word of mouth amongst the audiences. While both RR and Singham carrying +ve word of mouth will end up falling well short of all these films. Mainly because, Ajay and Akshay (for whatever their fanbase) can never generate the hysteria generated by the generation of the 3 Khan superstars. The popularity ranking would always be 1.Salman 2.SRK/Aamir 3.Hrithik 4.Akshay/Ajay. Although Hrithik is a from a different generation but that unfortunately cannot be counted as his contemporaries are the likes of Abhishek,John and Abhay :P

Anuj

@Ehinome : Back to your trolling, are you? SOS did 70% of its business at C centers with ticket prices of INR 50-70 while JTHJ did 70% of its business at multiplexes with ticket prices in the range of 120-150. As for Singham, its anyday a lot more watchable than the likes of 'Che'nnai Express,(B)Ra.1 and Don(key)-2 even if its got lower collections.

So nice thing, Singham Return is so nice and entertaining movie. I like all movies of Ajay Devgan. Thanks for sharing this wonderful information.

Fan

@Anuj: was waiting for you to reply to Ehinome. I knew it would be a smashing reply. Thanks.

Anuj

If there's one bollywood actor who deserves the tag of a 'survivor', its got to be Ajay Devgan. Despite his below average looks,zero dancing ability and poor box office results for a large part of his career the guy has time and again delivered memorable performances etched in our memories, be it the passionate lover in HDDCS, the ruthless gangster in Company/Khakee, the honest no nonsense cop in Gangajal/Singham, the confused rebellious youth in Apaharan/Raajneeti or some silly buffonary in the Golmaal/SOS/Bol Bachchan's of the world, this guy has triumphed over all odds no doubt. SINGHAM RETURNS is indeed a celebration of the Lion hearted spirit of this survivor.

@Adam when I say it's a Salman Khan film, it means it is a "typical" Salman Khan film. You know exactly what to expect. When I say it deviates from a typical Salman Khan film ,it means there is something different from his usual stuff. It is not a remark on him, it is about the kind of films he acts in.

Anuj

The film has crashed in North India and Maharashtra is the only region giving outstanding footfall and figures. I guess for Indian audiences, its always been Entertainment over Content. No wonder films like Sarfarosh,Khakee and now Singham Returns have just been Hits/Semi hits while the Dabangg's,Ghajini's and CE's of the world have broken records. Add to that Devgan's limited and fragmented fan following (mainly in the Maharashtra/Goa belt) and you have an excellent commercial entertainer underperforming (despite being a HIT). Because unfortunately the sad fact of Bollywood box office right from the times of Dilip Kumar/Amitabh Bachchan to the times of the Khans',Kumars',Devgans' and Roshans' has been that stardom and entertainment has always taken precedence over content (at least in terms of box office numbers).

siddharth

@Anuj i completely agree on this that the stardom does take precedence over content but it is also upto the star to give us some different options to watch with in commercial viability.
@Meetu you have given this movie higher rating then Holiday which i think too was decent movie.

@Meetu - Looking through your review and the comments that followed I really do feel I am missing something here. I watched this film last night and left the cinema thinking it was a total waste of my time. Each to his own but I really cannot understand what makes some people think Rohit Shetty is a good director. It is unfortunate that we weigh success by the amount of money a film makes. I want to suggest you have a rating called 'I wouldn't recommend this even to an enemy', and Singham Returns fits nicely into it. I am quite surprised you were suggesting there is a 'message' in the film.. Really Meetu?? And the focus is the story?? - you can't be serious!

The film seems to be attempting to do too many things at one time mostly taking cues from current and recent headline making events in India - it has a BJP styled political party with the development and youth agenda, an Asaram Bapu type baba, previously likeable but now irritating candle tributes, a Barkha Dutt lookalike journalist who interestingly is both a journalist and a newsreader, an attempt to please culturally diverse people because for the director that's the politically correct place to be, the list it just goes on. It is like several films woven together with the cheapest wool available in the market. There isn't anything new in the film either with the exception of 1000s of policemen walking with fresh brilliant-white vests on the streets of Mumbai but even that falls flat in the events that follow. I hope we all don't just say the film has mass appeal - that would be an insult to whoever fits in that category.

The sub-standard dialogues and the background music (noise rather!) make the experience even worse. And what is with the whole atha maajhi sataklee dialogue?? Not once in the film was the dialogue used aptly, not to mention the dialogue itself isn't punchy.. Is it just me or was there a bit too much of Marathi frequenting in a Hindi film?
The background score abruptly shifts from a slow message oriented song with the Darga in the background, to a very fast-paced poorly delivered Bhagavad Gita inspired chanting, and this pattern repeats again and again.

Performances -- well there is Ajay Devgan whose performance is emotionally crippled, an old looking Kareena Kapoor who is in her most irritable and loud character yet, and the others that don't deserve mention in my view. One exception being the dead constable's wife who for a couple of minutes does deliver some emotion.

The film is an awful remake of a not so good original. Either that or I had a bad day!

Thanks
Nirmal

Anuj

@Nirmal:Singham Returns is not a remake. Get you facts right. Suriya's Singam-2 had a different plot altogether. In fact South producers are now queuing up to remake Singham Returns as an independent film altogether :

http://www.bangaloremirror.com/entertainment/south-masala/Singam-returns-without-Suriya/articleshow/36723423.cms

@Anuj - I was referring to the franchise in general but I see your point. Sorry I got that wrong but I really hope the Southern film-makers don't remake this film.

ehinome okojie

Third weekend likely to finish at < 2.3cr, what started as Singham returns will end as Chewing gum returns at the box office 140cr is its current target, Should we blame YRF for releasing Mardaani or are we waiting for Bang Bang.

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