Kriti Sanon Defends 'Cocktail 2' Against Critical Reviews Over Comparison With Deepika's 'Cocktail'

Cocktail 2 officially hit theatres on June 19, 2026, drawing mixed reviews from critics and audiences. Directed by Homi Adajania (who also helmed the 2012 hit, Cocktail), the film stars Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles. Cocktail 2 is a more modern take on the OG movie, featuring an urban relationship dynamic between the three actors. The film's reception among the general public and critics has been mixed due to comparisons with Deepika Padukone, Saif Ali Khan, and Diana Penty's Cocktail.

Be it a shift in audience taste or loyalty to the OG movie, Cocktail 2 has faced intense scrutiny over its plot and the reworking of the beloved song Tumhi Ho Bandhu into Bandhu 2.0. Recently, Kriti addressed the issue and clarified her movie's intent.

Kriti Sanon hit back at the criticism of Cocktail 2 due to comparisons with Cocktail

Recently, at The Femina Beauty Awards, Kriti Sanon spoke about the reception of Cocktail 2 after the massive success of Deepika's Cocktail. She admitted that, because the two films had similar titles and concepts, a comparison between them was inevitable. However, the Do Patti fame also noted that the criticism of the second instalment was unnecessary, as it's "not a sequel" and is just part of the same love-triangle franchise. According to Kriti, just the vibe of the two movies is the same, and the characters are completely different. She stated, 

"I'm sure a comparison is going to happen, but the good part is that this is not a sequel; it's a franchise. So it's more of a vibe franchise, and the characters are separate."

Kriti Sanon opened up on what makes the vibes between Cocktail and Cocktail 2 similar

In a chat with Bollywood Hungama, Kriti Sanon explained why she thinks Cocktail and Cocktail 2 are being compared so much. The two movies share a similar vibe because both plots centre on love triangles involving one boy and two girls. The emotional aspect of both Cocktail and Cocktail 2, including the unexpected friendships, the fallouts and reconciliations, made them feel similar. Kriti further stated that the tone and atmosphere of the two movies can be compared, but not the characters. Her exact words were:

"It carries a vibe similar to Cocktail...which is also present in Cocktail 2. The story involves two girls and one boy. The tone and atmosphere are in a comparable realm, yet the narrative and characters are entirely distinct...[Cocktail 2] is a mix of emotions, camaraderie, drama, music, and stunning locations [just like the previous installment.]"

More about Cocktail 2

Cocktail 2 revolves around 'Kunal' (Shahid Kapoor) and 'Diya' (Rashmika Mandanna), who share a decade-long relationship and are seen as the 'made for each other' type of couple. Their bond faces an unexpected turbulence when an old friend, 'Ally' (Kriti Sanon), re-enters their lives. The movie explores modern relationships, focusing on topics such as emotional cheating. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cleared the movie with an 'A' (Adults Only) certificate due to its mature relationship themes.

Latest reviews are mixed regarding the plot; however, they heaped praises on Kriti Sanon's reimagining of the baddie 'Veronica' (Deepika Padukone) from the OG Cocktail. Her chemistry with Shahid Kapoor also received acclaim. Regarding Rashmika Mandanna's role, there has been some criticism around her accent; however, overall, 'Diya' came across as a likeable character.

When will Cocktail 2 be released on OTT platform?

As per the latest reports, Netflix holds the post-theatrical digital streaming rights for Kriti Sanon, Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna's Cocktail 2. While its streaming rights are locked in, the official OTT release date has not yet been announced by the makers. However, if the ongoing trend is considered, a movie typically makes its way from the silver screen to OTT platforms within six to eight weeks of its theatrical release.

What are your thoughts on Kriti Sanon defending Cocktail 2 against the criticism surrounding its comparison with the OG Cocktail? Let us know.

Also Read: 'Cocktail 2' Early Review, Kriti Sanon Brings Drama In Shahid Kapoor And Rashmika Mandanna's Romance

Photos Courtesy: Maddock Films and Luv Films

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