Nawazuddin Siddiqui returns as Inspector Jatil Yadav in "Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders," now streaming on Netflix since December 19, 2025. This crime thriller sequel, directed by Honey Trehan and written by Smita Singh, plunges viewers back into a world of murky secrets and moral ambiguities. Following the success of "Raat Akeli Hai" (2020), this new installment revolves around the brutal massacre of the wealthy Bansal family, owners of a newspaper empire.

Siddiqui, as expected, effortlessly embodies Inspector Jatil Yadav, delivering a performance marked by subtlety and quiet observation. His portrayal showcases a world-weariness and intelligence that anchors the film, allowing silences to speak volumes. Radhika Apte reprises her role as Jatil's partner, Radha, bringing emotional depth and continuity to the story. Apte's character, now rooted in love and self-assurance, serves as a reminder of Jatil's past and the man he is becoming.

Chitrangada Singh joins the cast as Meera Bansal, portraying a character shrouded in both fragility and strength. Singh's performance is marked by restraint, adding layers of ambiguity that keep the audience guessing. The ensemble cast also includes Deepti Naval, Ila Arun Bajpai, Revathy Asha Kelluni, Rajat Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Priyanka Setia, Shridhar Dubey, and Akhilendra Mishra, each adding depth to the intricate narrative.

Trehan's direction masterfully establishes a mood of unease, exposing the rot beneath familial respectability. The screenplay skillfully plants red herrings, keeping viewers engaged as suspicion shifts from one character to another. The film delves into themes of class hierarchies, social decay, and the moral failures within the justice system, offering an unsparing examination of these issues.

While "The Bansal Murders" excels in atmosphere and suspense, some critics note that the ultimate reveal lacks the impact needed to elevate the story. The larger motive behind the crime and the final twist may feel familiar to genre enthusiasts, echoing tropes seen in other whodunnits. However, the strength of the performances, particularly Siddiqui's, and the film's ability to maintain tension throughout, make it a worthwhile watch. The use of camera work and superstitions to unravel the mystery is particularly interesting.