Film Review: Sikandar (2025) – 4.5/5 Stars
Sikandar isn’t just a movie; it’s a pulse-pounding cinematic experience that grips you from the very first frame and refuses to let go. Directed by A. R. Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, this 2025 Indian Hindi-language action thriller stars Salman Khan in the titular role, alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar. With a high-stakes narrative and intense action, this film delivers an emotional punch while keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
Plot and Storyline
Set against the backdrop of a ruthless world where power and survival go hand in hand, Sikandar follows the journey of a man who rises from the ashes of betrayal to carve his own destiny. The film masterfully intertwines themes of ambition, loyalty, and vengeance, creating a gripping narrative that keeps you guessing at every turn.
Performances That Shine
Salman Khan delivers a career-defining performance, seamlessly blending intensity with vulnerability. His transformation from an underdog to a formidable force is both inspiring and electrifying. Rashmika Mandanna and Kajal Aggarwal bring depth to their roles, while Sathyaraj, Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar add layers of complexity, making every confrontation feel like a battle of wits and willpower.
Action & Cinematography
The action sequences in Sikandar are a visual treat, choreographed to perfection. Whether it’s gritty hand-to-hand combat or high-octane chases, the adrenaline never stops pumping. Cinematographer Tirru captures every moment with a raw, visceral appeal that immerses viewers in its intense world, making the most of the film’s grand ₹200 crore budget.
Music & Background Score
A film of this magnitude deserves a soundtrack that packs a punch, and Sikandar delivers just that. The songs, composed by Pritam, add emotional depth, while Santhosh Narayanan’s gripping background score enhances every scene, amplifying the tension and drama.
Where It Falls Short
While Sikandar is a near-perfect cinematic experience, a few aspects might not sit well with everyone:
- The unrelenting intensity may overwhelm viewers seeking lighter entertainment.
- Some plot turns require a suspension of disbelief.
- The 160-minute runtime, while purposeful, tests patience in quieter moments.
The Birth of a New Era in Indian Cinema
In the annals of Bollywood history, certain films stand as dividing lines – before and after moments that redefine what’s possible. Sikandar is that rare seismic event, a film so perfectly realized in its vision that it transcends its genre to become something timeless. This isn’t just Salman Khan’s career-best performance or A.R. Murugadoss’ directorial masterpiece – this is Indian cinema’s answer to The Dark Knight, a film that proves commercial entertainment can be high art.
A Performance for the Ages
Salman Khan doesn’t merely act in Sikandar – he undergoes a spiritual transformation on screen. Every frame captures an actor completely surrendered to his character, delivering:
- Physicality that redefines action choreography.
- Emotional depth that will leave you shattered.
- Nuance in silence that speaks volumes.
The much-discussed “mirror scene” in the third act may be the single greatest moment of Khan’s career – a masterclass in acting where his eyes alone convey an entire character arc.
Direction as Poetry
Murugadoss orchestrates this symphony of violence and redemption with:
- A narrative structure that’s daring yet perfectly executed.
- Action sequences that serve as character development.
- Visual symbolism that rewards repeat viewing.
His decision to shoot key sequences in single takes creates an unprecedented immersive intensity in Indian cinema.
Technical Brilliance That Sets New Standards
Every department excels beyond measure:
- Cinematography that’s both brutal and beautiful.
- Sound design where every punch lands in your gut.
- Production design that creates a fully realized world.
The climactic 28-minute sequence isn’t just filmmaking – it’s alchemy, blending all these elements into pure cinematic magic.
Why This Film Matters
Sikandar achieves what few Indian films have:
- It elevates the mass masala genre to high art.
- It proves commercial films can be intellectually satisfying.
- It demonstrates that star vehicles can have artistic integrity.
The Perfect Film?
If we must find flaws:
- The emotional weight may be overwhelming for some.
- Its runtime demands (and rewards) complete immersion.
A New Salman Khan Emerges
Gone is the larger-than-life hero. In his place stands Sikandar – a broken, complex warrior whose journey is as emotional as it is violent. Khan strips away his star persona to reveal astonishing depth, particularly in silent moments that speak volumes.
Storytelling at Its Finest
The narrative weaves between past and present with Hitchcockian tension, revealing layers of betrayal and redemption. Unlike typical revenge dramas, every character has nuance, every motive feels real. The final act delivers revelations that will leave audiences stunned.
Action With Purpose
Each fight serves the story, featuring some of the most realistic combat choreography in Indian cinema. A 12-minute single-take sequence midway through the film is already being hailed as a new benchmark for action filmmaking.
Supporting Cast Excellence
Rashmika Mandanna delivers her career-best performance, while Prateik Babbar creates one of Bollywood’s most memorable villains in recent years. Their confrontations with Khan crackle with intensity.
Must Experience For:
- Anyone who believes in the power of cinema.
- Filmmakers seeking inspiration.
- Audiences ready to witness history being made.
- The world, because Sikandar deserves global recognition.
Final Assessment
Sikandar represents that rare achievement – a mass entertainer with an arthouse soul. It satisfies action cravings while delivering unexpected emotional depth and thematic richness. Salman Khan has never been better, and Bollywood has rarely seen ambition executed this flawlessly.
Must Watch For:
- Film lovers who believe Indian cinema can compete globally.
- Audiences tired of formulaic storytelling.
- Anyone wanting to witness an actor’s rebirth.
Final Verdict
Sikandar is not just an action film—it’s a compelling story of resilience and power. With its gripping storyline, stellar performances, and breathtaking action, it’s a must-watch for anyone who craves a blend of thrill and drama. Released worldwide on March 30, 2025, in standard and IMAX formats, Sikandar stands tall as one of the most expensive and ambitious Indian films ever made. This is cinema at its finest—raw, real, and riveting.
Sikandar isn’t just a movie – it’s a revelation. It’s the film against which future Bollywood productions will be measured. Salman Khan has given us his best performance and one for the history books. Murugadoss has crafted something that will be studied for generations. This is Indian cinema at its absolute pinnacle.
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