Salman Khan returns to the silver screen with Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss and featuring Rashmika Mandanna alongside him. The much-anticipated film showcases Salman Khan as Raja Sahab, the final heir of Rajkot’s royal lineage, whose commanding aura captivates his adoring ‘praja.’ Despite the affection surrounding him, threats loom large due to his tendency to dispense justice using his fists. When Prateik Babbar’s character, the son of a politician, crosses his path, Raja Sahab’s life spirals into peril as Babbar’s father seeks vengeance.
Sikandar is a film that draws heavily from Salman Khan’s mass appeal. Each scene is a testament to his star power, leaving audiences cheering as he executes high-voltage stunts and delivers punchlines with aplomb. The intentional direction steeps viewers in a wave of emotion, inviting them to revel in the spectacle that is Salman Khan. His entry into any frame is met with palpable excitement, a hallmark of his magnetic presence.
Though electrifying, Salman Khan’s portrayal lacks emotional depth in pivotal scenes dealing with personal loss, leaving a disconnect with audiences. The film’s attempt to navigate complex emotions fails to land, as Salman struggles to convey the gravity of his character’s grief, potentially alienating viewers seeking a deeper narrative connection. Action sequences abound, providing relentless momentum, but the emotional stakes fall flat, failing to strike a chord with viewers.
Rashmika Mandanna shines as Raja Sahab’s wife, injecting life into her role with poise and presence. Yet, her character lacks agency, posing questions regarding her influence within the narrative. Although her chemistry with Salman Khan is noteworthy, her limited screen time suggests a missed opportunity to explore her full potential. This echoes a sentiment for Rashmika, indicating a need to broaden her selection of roles to avoid being eclipsed by larger star personas.
The film falters in its antagonist arc with Sathyaraj and Sharman Joshi, their contributions overshadowed by underdeveloped roles. Anjini Dhawan and Kajal Agarwal make brief appearances, offering little substance to the storyline. The film boasts praiseworthy music and background scores that adeptly intensify the on-screen action, crafting an atmosphere of suspense and energy.
As a cinematic venture, Sikandar endeavors to weave an emotional drama, delving into the journey of a husband grappling with loss and resilience following his wife’s tragic demise. However, reliance on Salman Khan’s established appeal without incorporating narrative ingenuity limits the film’s broader resonance. It remains a spectacle designed for ardent fans, a singular viewing that capitalizes on nostalgia over narrative innovation.
The significance of Sikandar lies in its reflection of Salman Khan’s enduring charisma, a vehicle for his prowess that dances on the threshold of action and emotion. Nonetheless, it leaves room for critique and introspection regarding the cinematic approach of favoring star appeal over storytelling depth. As much as his loyal followers may revel in his return, others might find themselves yearning for a more substantial narrative experience.
