Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - Cocktail 2, starring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna, hit theatres on June 19 and has sparked mixed reactions from audiences on social media. While some viewers praised the film's emotional moments, music and picturesque Sicilian locations, others criticised its screenplay, calling it a disappointing sequel to the 2012 hit Cocktail.

Many social media users felt the film's story was stretched and lacked the charm of the original. Several viewers described the first half as average and the second half as slow, with some taking issue with the film's “loyalty test” plotline and predictable twists. A section of viewers even labelled the film a “soulless sequel” and questioned its narrative choices. Despite the criticism, Kriti Sanon emerged as the standout performer in many reviews. Audiences praised her emotional depth, screen presence and performance, with several calling her the “heart and soul” of the film.

Shahid Kapoor's performance received a mixed response, while Rashmika Mandanna's role and screen time also became a topic of discussion among viewers. Directed by Homi Adajania, Cocktail 2 serves as a spiritual successor to the 2012 romantic comedy Cocktail, which starred Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty. The film recently received an ‘A’ (Adults Only) certificate from the CBFC.

Although Cocktail 2 has divided opinion, the film has generated significant buzz online. While some viewers have praised its performances and entertainment value, others feel it falls short of the expectations created by the original, making it one of the most talked-about Bollywood releases of the year.