⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Director: A.R. Murugadoss
Cast: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna, Sharman Joshi, Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj
A Star Vehicle That Goes Nowhere
“Sikandar” was expected to be an action-packed blockbuster with a gripping story, but it turns out to be a painfully predictable, over-the-top mess. Directed by A.R. Murugadoss and led by Salman Khan, this film is a prime example of what happens when style is mistaken for substance, and star power is mistaken for storytelling.
Weak Storyline, Weaker Execution
The film follows Sanjay, aka Sikandar (Salman Khan), a seemingly ordinary man who finds himself embroiled in a battle against corrupt politicians after a mid-air altercation with a minister’s son. What could have been an intriguing tale of power, corruption, and justice quickly devolves into a laughably exaggerated drama riddled with clichéd dialogues, forced emotions, and logic-defying action sequences.
Murugadoss, known for his previous hits like Ghajini, appears to be running on empty here. The narrative lacks focus, swinging between emotional melodrama, unnecessary song sequences, and mindless action. The screenplay is shockingly lazy, relying on done-to-death tropes rather than fresh storytelling.
Salman Khan on Auto-Pilot
Salman Khan, often celebrated for his larger-than-life presence, delivers one of his most uninspired performances. He sleepwalks through the role, offering the same expressions and slow-motion walks that we’ve seen countless times before. His character lacks depth, making it impossible to emotionally connect with his so-called struggle.
Rashmika Mandanna, playing his wife, is barely given anything to do except look teary-eyed and supportive. Sharman Joshi and Kajal Aggarwal are completely wasted, while Sathyaraj as the antagonist is forgettable.
Action Without Thrill, Drama Without Emotion
The action sequences, which should have been the film’s strength, are instead cartoonishly unrealistic. Salman Khan taking down dozens of henchmen single-handedly might work for his hardcore fans, but for the average viewer, it’s just another overused gimmick. The VFX is also embarrassingly bad for a film of this scale, making some scenes unintentionally hilarious.
The emotional moments, meant to be the heart of the film, come across as manipulative rather than moving. The dialogues feel like they were pulled from a rejected 90s script, filled with unnecessary punchlines that fail to land.
Verdict: A Dull, Forgettable Affair
“Sikandar” is a classic case of wasted potential. With an incoherent plot, uninspired performances, and absurd action sequences, it fails to deliver either entertainment or engagement. Even die-hard Salman Khan fans might find it hard to sit through this sluggish, outdated mess.
Final Rating: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5) – A film that neither thrills nor entertains. Avoid it.