The 2019 movie **War** is an action-thriller widely considered a commercial success and worth watching for fans of the genre. It’s praised for its spectacular action sequences and the dynamic performances of its lead actors, Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff, even though the plot is often seen as straightforward.
When two of Bollywood’s most electrifying action stars, Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff, team up for an espionage thriller, audiences expect a treat. That was the promise of War (2019), a film built on adrenaline-pumping sequences and a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase. It exploded onto screens with slick production, exotic locations, and gravity-defying stunts, quickly establishing itself as a major cinematic event.
But beyond the dazzling spectacle, does War hold up as a compelling action movie? Is this action-packed thriller truly worth watching, or is it merely style over substance? In this in-depth war movie review, we dive deep into the 2019 blockbuster to analyze what worked and what didn’t. Our analysis covers everything from the intricate plot and character dynamics to the jaw-dropping action and the much-hyped face-off between its stars.
So, buckle up! Before we deliver our final verdict, let’s unravel the story behind the explosive rivalry at the film’s core. Get ready to explore what makes War stand out in the crowded action genre.
What Is the 2019 Movie ‘War’ About?
A Spoiler-Free Plot Synopsis
The 2019 film War is a high-octane action thriller that pits two of India’s biggest action stars against each other. The story centers on Kabir, a decorated Indian intelligence agent who unexpectedly goes rogue, creating a massive national security threat.
To counter this, his former protégé, Khalid, another highly skilled agent, is brought in to hunt him down. Khalid’s mission is clear: neutralize the rogue operative. However, the assignment is complicated by their past connection, as Khalid’s deep respect for his former mentor creates a difficult internal struggle.
What follows is a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase across various exotic international locations, filled with jaw-dropping action sequences and unexpected twists. The narrative is driven by two central questions: Why did Kabir betray his country, and can Khalid stop him before it’s too late? This high-stakes conflict is at the core of the War movie review experience.
Meet the Main Characters and Cast
The dynamic between the main characters fuels War‘s intense narrative, and the film’s stellar cast brings these complex roles to life. Here are the key players:
- Kabir (Hrithik Roshan): Roshan portrays Kabir, a charismatic and highly skilled RAW agent who is a legendary figure in the intelligence community. His sudden defection shocks everyone, turning him into a formidable antagonist whose motives remain mysterious.
- Khalid Rahmani (Tiger Shroff): Shroff plays Khalid, Kabir’s determined and agile former protégé. Tasked with hunting his mentor, Khalid aims to prove his loyalty, while his personal connection to Kabir adds significant emotional depth to the mission.
- Naina (Vaani Kapoor): Kapoor takes on the role of Naina, a crucial character who becomes entangled in Kabir’s intricate plans. Her presence adds another layer of intrigue and raises the personal stakes of the conflict.
Other notable actors contribute to the film’s strong ensemble. Ashutosh Rana plays Colonel Luthra, the head of the intelligence agency, and Anupriya Goenka portrays Aditi. While these supporting roles provide essential context, the palpable chemistry between Roshan and Shroff is a major highlight that elevates the entire war movie review.
How Do the Performances and Action Stack Up?
Hrithik Roshan vs. Tiger Shroff: The Ultimate Face-Off
The core of War shines in the dynamic between its two leading men. Hrithik Roshan plays Kabir, a seasoned RAW agent, bringing a profound and nuanced gravitas to his portrayal of the enigmatic mentor.
As Kabir’s protégé Khalid, Tiger Shroff’s performance is driven by sheer physicality. His undeniable agility and dedication to stunts perfectly capture the character’s youthful eagerness and internal conflict.
Their individual strengths create an electrifying on-screen rivalry, making them two sides of the same coin. While Roshan offers depth and strategic thinking, Shroff delivers raw power and acrobatic flair. Their contrasting styles complement each other perfectly, elevating their combat sequences and adding layers to their dramatic confrontations. Critics often highlighted their chemistry and individual impact [1].
Here’s a quick look at what each actor brings:
- Hrithik Roshan (Kabir):
- Magnetic screen presence.
- Intense emotional delivery.
- Mastery of complex combat choreography.
- Portrayal of a conflicted yet dedicated operative.
- Tiger Shroff (Khalid):
- Unrivaled acrobatic skills.
- High-energy stunt execution.
- Conveys determination and vulnerability.
- Precision in high-flying kicks and parkour.
Reviewing the Direction and Cinematography
Siddharth Anand’s direction in War is spectacular, crafting a sleek, fast-paced narrative that never loses momentum. Anand masterfully balances gripping dramatic tension with explosive action, delivering on his clear vision for an international espionage spectacle with a truly global scale.
The cinematography by Benjamin Jasper is equally impressive, with camerawork that is a character in itself. Sweeping through stunning landscapes from pristine beaches to icy mountains, it captures every punch and explosion with vibrant visuals. The rich and dynamic color palette enhances both the suspense and the spectacle.
The evident collaboration between Anand and Jasper results in a visually stunning and immersive film where each shot feels meticulously planned. Consequently, the direction and cinematography are major highlights of this war movie review.
- Direction Highlights:
- Seamless blend of action and drama.
- Maintained high energy throughout.
- Effective use of global settings.
- Strong pacing and narrative flow.
- Cinematography Highlights:
- Breathtaking visual composition.
- Smooth and dynamic camera movements.
- Showcasing diverse international locations.
- Vivid color grading and lighting.
The High-Octane Stunts and Action Sequences
For those seeking adrenaline, War delivers in spades as a masterclass in modern action choreography. The film features gravity-defying stunts that push the boundaries of Indian cinema, a credit to the immense work of stunt coordinators Parvez Shaikh and Franz Spilhaus [2].
The film features a diverse range of visceral and impactful action, including intense hand-to-hand combat, thrilling car chases, high-octane bike pursuits, and meticulously executed aerial stunts. Every sequence is designed to thrill.
The on-screen dedication of both Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff, who perform many of their own stunts, adds a layer of authenticity that makes the combat feel more real. The film opens with a spectacular sequence and escalates continuously, with each set piece bigger than the last. The climax is an absolute explosion of action that leaves audiences breathless and solidifies the film’s status as a top-tier action thriller in any war movie review.
Key action elements include:
- Hand-to-Hand Combat: Expertly choreographed sequences emphasizing the actors’ martial arts prowess.
- Vehicle Chases: Thrilling car and bike pursuits that span various terrains and cities.
- Aerial Stunts: Jaw-dropping sequences featuring aircraft and high-altitude paragliding.
- Explosions and Gunfights: Intense pyrotechnics and shootouts delivered with impactful sound design.
- Innovative Choreography: A blend of style and substance that showcases the actors’ unique physical talents.
Is the War movie worth watching?
Heard the buzz and seen the trailers for War? If you’re wondering whether it’s worth watching, our verdict is a resounding yes—especially if you crave an action-packed cinematic experience.
This 2019 action thriller is more than just another Bollywood film; it’s a spectacle. From the first scene, it plunges you into a world of espionage and high-stakes chases. The movie excels in its action sequences, and the fight choreography is top-notch, delivering a visceral thrill that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Why War Delivers a Punch
- Unmatched Action: The film boasts some of Indian cinema’s most ambitious action sequences, from thrilling car chases to intense hand-to-hand combat. Every stunt is delivered with undeniable flair and precision.
- Star Power & Chemistry: The face-off between Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff is a major highlight. While both actors have undeniable charisma, their on-screen chemistry creates an electrifying dynamic that elevates the intensity of their rivalry.
- Visual Spectacle: The stunning cinematography transports you to exotic locations, from snowy mountains to sun-drenched beaches. Every frame feels grand and perfectly fits the scale of a global spy thriller.
- High Entertainment Value: While the plot offers twists, the movie’s main goal is to deliver pure adrenaline and entertainment. Its relentless pace and impressive set pieces make it a thrilling ride from start to finish.
If you love sleek spy thrillers, powerful performances, and non-stop action, War belongs on your watchlist. It’s a film that delivers exactly what it promises: an action-packed thriller that’s both stylish and incredibly entertaining. Don’t miss out on this high-octane spectacle!
Is War a hit or flop movie?
Box Office Performance and Collection
So, was War a hit or a flop? Let’s cut straight to the chase: this 2019 action spectacle was an absolute blockbuster. It didn’t just succeed—it dominated the box office.
Released to massive anticipation, the film delivered unprecedented box office numbers, cementing its place in cinematic history.
A Deep Dive into the Numbers
The financial figures for War paint a clear picture of its widespread commercial appeal and significant industry impact.
- Production Budget: The film boasted a substantial budget, estimated between ₹150–170 crore [3]. This investment was clearly visible in its grand scale and ambitious action sequences.
- India Net Collection: Domestically, War collected approximately ₹318 crore, making it a massive hit with local audiences [3].
- Worldwide Gross: On a global scale, the film amassed an astonishing ₹475.5 crore, firmly establishing it as a major international success [4].
Records Shattered and Milestones Achieved
Beyond the raw numbers, War also etched its name in the record books by setting several new benchmarks for Indian cinema.
- Highest-Grossing Bollywood Film of 2019: War secured the top spot as the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2019, an achievement that underscored its overwhelming popularity [5].
- Biggest Opening Day for a Hindi Film: The film exploded onto the scene, registering the highest-ever opening day collection for a Hindi film at the time, which demonstrated the immense pre-release hype [6].
- Fastest to Major Milestones: War quickly crossed significant box office milestones, reaching the ₹100 crore, ₹200 crore, and ₹300 crore clubs. This rapid progression solidified its status as a super-hit [7].
In conclusion, the answer to whether War was a hit or a flop is definitive: it was an undisputed commercial triumph. The incredible box office performance of this action thriller truly speaks for itself.
Are War 1 and War 2 connected?
Is There a Prequel or “War 1”?
Many fans wonder if the 2019 blockbuster War has a prequel. The answer is simple: The critically acclaimed film starring Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff is a standalone story. There is no official “War 1” that precedes it.
Is a “War 2” Sequel Being Made?
While there is no officially titled “War 2” yet, the possibility of a sequel is strong. The 2019 film was a massive commercial success, earning over ₹475 crore worldwide [source: https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?moviecode=4000], making a follow-up highly likely. However, the story is more complex than a simple sequel because War is a key film in the larger YRF Spy Universe.
The YRF Spy Universe Explained
The YRF Spy Universe is an interconnected series of films centered on Indian super-spies. Events and characters from one movie often cross over into others, creating a larger, shared narrative. This context is key to understanding the future of the War storyline.
The core films in this universe are:
- Ek Tha Tiger (2012): Introduced Salman Khan as the RAW agent Tiger.
- Tiger Zinda Hai (2017): A direct sequel to the first Tiger film, continuing the adventures of Tiger and Zoya.
- War (2019): Featured Hrithik Roshan as Kabir and Tiger Shroff as Khalid, dramatically expanding the universe.
- Pathaan (2023): Brought Shah Rukh Khan into the fold as the titular spy, with crucial crossovers from the Tiger and War storylines.
- Tiger 3 (2023): Continued Tiger’s saga, further weaving in characters and plot points from the wider universe.
Because War is firmly established within this franchise [source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/YRF_Spy_Universe], any future film continuing the story of Kabir or Khalid would serve as its sequel. Fans might call it “War 2,” but it could have a different official title as it ties into the broader universe.
The Final Verdict
So, while there is no “War 1” and no official “War 2” has been announced, the story is far from over. The future of War‘s characters lies within the expanding YRF Spy Universe. Be sure to watch for official announcements from Yash Raj Films for the next chapter.
What Is Our Final Verdict on the ‘War’ Movie?
The Good: What We Loved
The War movie has undeniable strengths, delivering on its promise of pure spectacle. The action sequences are breathtaking—meticulously choreographed to make every punch and explosion count. Adding to the appeal, the chemistry between Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff is electrifying. Their on-screen rivalry forms the backbone of the film, and both actors bring their A-game.
The film also boasts stunning cinematography, with visually rich frames that transport viewers to exotic locales. A tense background score enhances the experience, ramping up the tension during crucial moments. Simply put, War is a masterclass in pure entertainment, offering a thrilling ride that will keep you glued to your seat.
- High-Octane Action: The stunts and fight sequences are incredibly well-designed and thrilling.
- Star Power and Chemistry: Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff deliver powerful performances and share incredible on-screen charisma.
- Visual Grandeur: The movie offers spectacular visuals and production quality.
- Pacing and Entertainment: It maintains a brisk pace, ensuring constant excitement and engagement.
The Bad: Where It Could Improve
Though War gets a lot right, it isn’t without flaws. The plot, while functional, is often predictable, and the narrative could have used more twists and turns. Some character arcs also feel underdeveloped, leaving you wanting a deeper dive into their motivations.
The film’s emotional depth is occasionally sacrificed for spectacle, and a stronger emotional core would have made the high stakes feel more impactful. While War is a fun ride, it doesn’t break new ground in storytelling. Instead, it leans heavily on its stars and action sequences.
- Predictable Plot: The narrative follows a somewhat formulaic path, reducing surprise elements.
- Limited Character Depth: Supporting characters, and even the leads at times, lack profound development.
- Emotional Resonance: The focus on action sometimes overshadows opportunities for deeper emotional connection.
- Runtime: For some, the length might feel a bit stretched given the relatively straightforward plot.
Who Should Watch This Movie?
So, who should watch this movie? If you love adrenaline-pumping action, this film is tailor-made for you. It’s a must-watch for fans of Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff, as their on-screen synergy is a true sight to behold. Anyone seeking pure escapism and a grand cinematic experience will also find plenty to enjoy.
If you appreciate slick productions, incredible stunts, and charismatic leads, then buckle up. This action thriller delivers on its promise of high-octane entertainment. It’s the perfect choice for a weekend watch with friends, especially if you’re in the mood for pure blockbuster fun.
- Action Movie Enthusiasts: Those who live for incredible stunts and fight choreography.
- Fans of Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff: Anyone eager to see these two charismatic stars share the screen.
- Seekers of Pure Entertainment: Viewers looking for a thrilling, no-holds-barred cinematic experience.
- Bollywood Blockbuster Lovers: Individuals who enjoy large-scale Indian productions with high production values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is War a hit or flop movie?
The 2019 action film War was a massive box office hit. More than just a success, it was a blockbuster that shattered records to become one of the highest-grossing Indian films of its release year. The movie earned approximately ₹475.5 crore worldwide on a budget of about ₹150-170 crore [source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_(2019_film)]. These figures confirmed its widespread popularity with audiences.
Is the War movie worth watching?
Yes, War is highly recommended for fans of high-octane action, charismatic stars, and thrilling plots. The film is considered worth watching for several key reasons:
- Spectacular Action Sequences: The film delivers some of the most innovative and adrenaline-pumping stunts seen in Indian cinema.
- Star Power and Performances: Witness the electrifying chemistry and intense rivalry between Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff. Their performances are truly captivating.
- Engaging Plot: While primarily an action film, it also offers a compelling cat-and-mouse game with intriguing twists.
- Visual Grandeur: From exotic locations to stunning cinematography, the movie is a visual treat.
Overall, War is an ideal choice for an entertaining movie night, delivering both style and substance for action enthusiasts.
Are War 1 and War 2 connected?
Yes, War (2019) and the upcoming War 2 are directly connected. The 2019 film is the first installment in this storyline and also a key part of the broader YRF Spy Universe, which includes other movies like Tiger Zinda Hai and Pathaan.
The sequel, War 2, has been officially confirmed and is in development. It is planned as a direct continuation that will pick up the narrative and character arcs from the first film, further expanding this cinematic universe.
Sources
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/war/movie-review/71401399.cms
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7475736/fullcredits/
- https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?moviecode=5481
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_(2019_film)#Box_office
- https://boxofficeindia.com/report.php?reportid=5810
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/war-box-office-collection-day-1-hrithik-roshan-and-tiger-shroffs-film-breaks-all-records-collects-rs-53-25-crore/articleshow/71408139.cms
- https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/war/box-office/
