"War 2," the latest installment in the YRF Spy Universe starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, has underperformed at the box office, prompting analysis of what went wrong. While the film has crossed the ₹300 crore mark worldwide, reaching this milestone in seven days, it's considered the lowest-grossing film in the YRF Spy Universe after eight days compared to previous films such as "Pathaan" and "Tiger 3". Trade experts suggest the film may struggle to break even, given its high production and marketing costs.

Box Office Performance

"War 2" has earned ₹204 crore net (₹243 crore gross) at the domestic box office and approximately ₹70 crore in international earnings in its first eight days, bringing its worldwide gross to ₹313 crore. In comparison, "Pathaan" earned ₹668 crore worldwide in its first eight days. To be considered a hit, "War 2" needs to earn over ₹400 crore in net domestic collections. As of August 22, 2025, early estimates for the ninth day suggest a collection of around ₹0.51 crore, bringing the total to ₹204.47 crore.

The Hindi version of "War 2" has performed reasonably well, but the Telugu version has underperformed. After a strong opening day, Telugu earnings dropped significantly. The film is also facing competition from Rajinikanth's "Coolie".

Reasons for Underperformance

Several factors contributed to "War 2's" less-than-expected box office performance:

• High Expectations and Budget: "War 2" was expected to reach the ₹1000 crore mark, given the success of previous YRF Spy Universe films and the star power of Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR. The film was made on a budget of ₹325 crore and had a landing cost of ₹400 crore for Yash Raj Studios, including production and marketing.
• Competition: "War 2" clashed with Rajinikanth's "Coolie," dividing the audience and impacting the business of both films.
• Content and Reviews: Some critics and viewers have described "War 2" as weak with a predictable storyline, poorly executed stunts, and underwhelming VFX. Some viewers found certain action sequences and VFX unrealistic.
• Pace: The second half of the film slows down.
• Initial Opening: "War 2" had a moderate opening, and weekday collections dropped sharply. The opening day collection was lower than that of the first "War" film.

Mixed Reception

Audience reception to "War 2" has been mixed. While some have praised the film's action sequences, visuals, and the chemistry between Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, others have criticized the storyline, VFX, and pacing. Some fans felt the film lacked emotional depth.

OTT Release

Netflix has reportedly acquired the streaming rights to "War 2" and it is expected to be available on the platform in late September or early October 2025. However, an early OTT release is unlikely, as multiplex chains typically require an eight-week theatrical window.