Ek Villain received mixed-to-positive reviews: critics praised the performances (especially Riteish Deshmukh’s), the music, and the emotional intensity, while some criticized tonal inconsistencies and certain plot conveniences. The film was a commercial success and spawned a sequel in 2022 with thematic links but different characters.
In a career-defining turn, Deshmukh plays the antagonist, earning praise for his chilling portrayal of a "common man" serial killer. Legacy and 2021 Significance