In a spectacularly underwhelming fashion, Salman Khan's latest film, Sikandar, directed by A.R. Murugadoss, hit the screens on March 30, 2025, but has left audiences largely unimpressed. This Eid release, which was expected to showcase Khan's star power, instead flounders under the weight of a predictable narrative and lackluster performances.
The film features Khan as Sanjay Rajkot, affectionately known as Sikandar, a benevolent royal from Rajkot who is revered by his community. His character is portrayed as a modern-day hero, tackling societal issues while juggling his relationship with his much younger wife, Saisri (played by Rashmika Mandanna). However, the film quickly devolves into a convoluted tale that struggles to maintain coherence, with critics pointing out its glaring flaws.
Set against the backdrop of a mining community, Sikandar opens with a conflict between Sikandar and Minister Pradhan's (Sathyaraj) son, Arjun (Prateik Babbar), during a flight. This altercation sets off a chain of events that leads to a personal tragedy for Sikandar, pushing him into a mission to protect three individuals who received organ donations from his deceased wife. The film attempts to blend action with emotional depth, but critics argue it falls flat, lacking the necessary engagement to resonate with viewers.
As the story unfolds, Sikandar's journey is marked by predictable tropes and heavy-handed messaging about social issues. The film is criticized for its performative wokeness, showcasing scenes like a woman being harassed on a plane, only for Sikandar to intervene with a punch and a speech on decency. Such moments are seen as superficial attempts to engage with serious topics without genuinely addressing them. Critics have noted that the film feels more like a vehicle for Khan's persona rather than a cohesive narrative.
Despite the star-studded cast, including Sharman Joshi, Kajal Aggarwal, and Sathyaraj, many performances are described as lacking depth. Joshi, who plays Sikandar's sidekick, is reportedly reduced to a background character with minimal screen time, while Mandanna's role as the royal princess offers little opportunity for her to shine. Critics have pointed out that her character feels forced and lacks emotional resonance, reducing her to a mere prop in Khan's grand narrative.
The film's direction has also come under fire, with Murugadoss's screenplay deemed uninspired and dull. Reviewers have remarked on the choppy editing and the lack of energy in the storytelling, suggesting that the film fails to keep the audience engaged throughout its 150-minute runtime. The predictable climax and formulaic plot twists have led many to label Sikandar as one of Khan's weakest films to date.
In a review from 123telugu.com, the film received a disappointing rating of 2 out of 5, highlighting its lack of depth and the mechanical nature of the performances. The review pointed out that the characters feel artificial, making it difficult for audiences to connect with their struggles. Furthermore, Sathyaraj's portrayal of the villain was criticized for being outdated and reminiscent of exaggerated antagonists from previous decades.
Despite some decent moments for Khan, including a few action sequences that may excite his fans, the film's overall execution has been labeled as a non-starter. The music, composed by Pritam, has also been described as pedestrian, failing to leave a lasting impression. Critics argue that the film lacks the emotional weight that is often expected from Khan's Eid releases.
As the film progresses, the narrative attempts to tackle issues such as organ donation and environmental concerns, but these themes are delivered in a heavy-handed manner that detracts from the story's overall impact. The film's ambition to be a socially conscious action drama is undermined by its inability to engage meaningfully with the issues it raises.
In conclusion, Sikandar stands as a testament to the pitfalls of relying too heavily on star power without a solid narrative foundation. As audiences look for compelling stories that resonate on a deeper level, Khan's latest offering may ultimately be remembered as an exhausting ride that tests patience more than it entertains. With its predictable beats and recycled tropes, Sikandar is unlikely to leave a lasting mark in the realm of Bollywood cinema.
