A Salman Khan Spectacle That Struggles with Depth
Salman Khan’s much-anticipated Sikandar (2025) is a film that treads familiar ground—high-octane action, over-the-top heroism, and an emotional core that never quite finds its footing. Directed by A.R Murugadoss, the film attempts to be a poignant tale of love, loss, and resilience but ultimately leans too heavily on Salman’s larger-than-life persona, making it an offering strictly for his devoted fanbase.
A Story of Grief, But Only on Paper
Sikandar follows the emotional journey of a husband grappling with the devastating loss of his wife. However, despite the promising premise, the film fails to deliver an authentic portrayal of grief. The screenplay merely scratches the surface, offering predictable emotional beats rather than an in-depth exploration of trauma and healing. Salman Khan, who plays the grieving husband, struggles to bring out the nuances required for such a role. His dialogue delivery feels flat, and in pivotal emotional scenes, he misses the mark, leaving a void where raw emotions should have been.
The Unignorable Age Gap
One of Sikandar’s most glaring missteps is the casting of Rashmika Mandanna as Salman’s wife. The 31-year age gap between the two leads is not only distracting but also takes away from the believability of their on-screen chemistry. The romance lacks conviction, making it difficult for the audience to invest in their relationship, which is supposed to be the emotional backbone of the story.
Supporting Cast: A Wasted Opportunity
With a supporting ensemble featuring talented actors like Sharman Joshi, Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, and Prateik Babbar, Sikandar had the potential to elevate its narrative. Unfortunately, none of them get substantial material to work with, making their performances forgettable. They exist merely to prop up the protagonist, reinforcing the film’s singular focus on Salman’s character rather than crafting a well-rounded story.
Music & Background Score: A Missed Opportunity
A film like Sikandar, which attempts to blend action with emotional drama, relies heavily on its music and background score to heighten the impact of key moments. However, the soundtrack is lackluster, failing to leave an impression. Even the background score, which could have added depth to the narrative, feels generic and uninspired. Unlike some of Salman’s past blockbusters, where music became a cultural phenomenon, Sikandar does not offer any memorable tracks.
Mass Appeal Over Substance
Despite its narrative flaws, Sikandar will likely resonate with Salman Khan’s die-hard fans. The action sequences, slow-motion hero entries, and larger-than-life persona will satisfy those looking for escapism rather than a thought-provoking cinematic experience. However, for viewers expecting a deeply moving tale of resilience, Sikandar falls short.
Final Verdict
Sikandar (2025) is a film that prioritizes Salman Khan’s star power over storytelling. The emotional depth it promises is lost in its attempt to glorify its lead actor. The age-inappropriate casting, underutilized supporting characters, and uninspiring music make it a forgettable affair for anyone outside Salman’s loyal fanbase. If you’re looking for a film with genuine emotional weight, this isn’t it. But if you’re in the mood for another dose of Salman’s invincible screen presence, Sikandar delivers just that.
