Review: Raat Akeli Hai – The Bansal Murders

New Delhi, December 20, 2025: In 2020, director Honey Trehan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivered one of Netflix India’s most acclaimed noir thrillers, Raat Akeli Hai. Fast forward to December 2025, and the duo has returned with a spiritual sequel, Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders.

But does this second outing capture the same lightning in a bottle, and are fans satisfied? Here is the updated look at the thriller that has everyone talking this weekend.

The Plot: A Bloody Media Empire Crumbling

The story brings back the sharp yet weary Inspector Jatil Yadav (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), who is summoned to investigate a macabre crime scene at the palatial mansion of the Bansals, a powerful media family. Unlike the single murder of the first film, this case involves a literal massacre—six family members are found butchered.

While the local police and the influential survivors, led by Meera Bansal (Chitrangada Singh), are quick to blame a drug-addled son, Jatil senses a deeper rot. The investigation weaves through corporate greed, spiritual cults led by a creepy godwoman (Deepti Naval), and systemic corruption that stretches into the heart of the police force itself.

Fan and Critic Reactions: Did It Impress?

The early verdict is a mix of high praise for the performances and a slight “sequel fatigue” regarding the pacing.

• The Nawazuddin Factor: Fans are unanimous—Nawazuddin Siddiqui is the soul of this franchise. His portrayal of Jatil Yadav has evolved; he is less of a judgmental small-town man and more of a seasoned moral compass. Viewers on social media have hailed his “quiet intensity” and “eyes that do the acting.”
• The Radhika Apte Cameo: While Radhika Apte’s name is high on the billing, many fans were slightly disappointed to find her in a special appearance rather than a lead role. However, her effortless chemistry with Nawazuddin provides the film’s few warm, human moments amidst the gore.
• The New Entrants: Veteran actress Revathi, playing a no-nonsense forensic expert, has emerged as the breakout star of the sequel. Her clinical, almost darkly humorous approach to crime scenes has led many to call for a spin-off of her character.

The “Knives Out” Comparison

Critics have noted that while the 2020 original was a gritty, Chinatown-esque noir, The Bansal Murders feels more like a “Knives Out-style” whodunit. It’s colorful, crowded with suspects, and packed with red herrings.

However, some fans feel the movie is “overstuffed.” With so many family members and subplots involving gas leaks and bulldozers, the 136-minute runtime occasionally tests the viewer’s patience.

The Final Verdict

Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders may not be as “tight” as the original, but it remains a cut above the average OTT thriller. It succeeds because it doesn’t just ask who did it, but why a society allows such rot to exist in the first place.

If you loved the first film for its atmosphere and Jatil’s dry wit, this is a must-watch. Just don’t expect a fast-paced actioner—this is a slow-burn mystery that demands your full attention.