War 2 backlash sparks debate on YRF Spyverse’s future as AD Rajvir Ashar deems film weakest

Ayan Mukerji’s War 2, one of the most awaited films of the year, released on August 14 with immense buzz. Starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani, the film was meant to be a milestone in YRF’s Spy Universe. Instead, it has divided audiences, with criticism targeting its weak story and unimpressive visual effects.

Adding to the backlash, Rajvir Ashar, who worked as an assistant director on Pathaan and the original War, shared his disappointment. Posting on Instagram, he wrote, “This one was just a heartbreaking experience for me. I was rooting for this film, and all it did was upset me to no degree! A mid first half is followed by a deplorable and overlong second.”

Ashar, who has previously worked under Siddharth Anand on projects like Fighter, didn’t hold back. He noted the lack of emotional depth, saying, “Neither did it have enough highs nor was it successful in resonating with me emotionally! The most ‘anticipated’ day turned out to be a ‘colossal’ disappointment. Weakest film of the universe (YRF Spy Universe)!”

His reaction found strong support online. Comments echoed his sentiment, with one user calling it “truly the weakest film of the universe” and another bluntly stating, “The movie was so bad.” Some fans, however, singled out Bobby Deol’s role as the only redeeming factor, while others suggested the franchise had run its course, writing, “Should end the Spyverse now.”

The YRF Spy Universe began in 2012 with Ek Tha Tiger, followed by Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, Tiger 3, and now War 2. The next instalment, Alpha, directed by Shiv Rawail and starring Alia Bhatt, Sharvari, and Bobby Deol, is lined up for release on December 25.

Despite the criticism, War 2 is performing strongly at the box office. In three days, the film has collected ?142 crore in India and crossed Rs 200 crore worldwide. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film also marks Jr NTR’s much-discussed Bollywood debut alongside Hrithik Roshan, who returns as Kabir Dhaliwal.

The mixed reception leaves a larger question for YRF’s spy franchise: can spectacle-driven films continue to thrive without strong storytelling at their core?