Thematically, Ek Villain Returns delves into the darkness of the human psyche. It explores how rejection and heartbreak can lead to toxic behavior. By framing the protagonists as flawed and potentially villainous, the film subverts the traditional Bollywood hero trope. It suggests that everyone has a "villain" inside them, triggered by specific circumstances and emotional trauma.

One of the film’s strongest assets is its music. Mohit Suri’s films are known for their soulful and melancholic soundtracks, and this sequel is no exception. Songs like Galliyan Returns and Dil provide a haunting backdrop that enhances the emotional stakes of the characters. These tracks bridge the gap between the original film and the sequel, maintaining a sense of continuity in terms of mood and aesthetic.

The plot of Ek Villain Returns revolves around a mysterious masked serial killer who targets women who do not reciprocate the love of their "one-sided" lovers. The story follows Bhairav, a lonely taxi driver and part-time zoo worker who falls for Rasika, a greedy and manipulative salesperson. Parallelly, it tracks Gautam, a rich and reckless brat who gets entangled with an aspiring singer, Aarvi. As the timelines merge, the film shifts into a whodunit thriller, challenging the audience to figure out who the "real" villain is.