Salman Khan‘s performance in Sikandar has left audiences unimpressed, marking a potential turning point for renowned director AR Murugadoss, who faces his first major setback in Bollywood. Released recently, Sikandar has struggled to captivate viewers, evidenced by reports of empty theatres and fans distributing free tickets. These signs indicate a lukewarm reception, despite efforts by the actor’s PR team to circulate positive reviews.
For Murugadoss, this film represents a return to Bollywood after significant successes with Ghajini and Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty. Ghajini, featuring Aamir Khan, was a milestone for Bollywood, achieving blockbuster status and becoming the first ₹100 crore grosser, thanks to its engaging storyline that had resonated well with audiences. Similarly, Holiday was another hit under his belt. However, Sikandar seems to lack Murugadoss’ signature touch, failing to meet the high bar set by his previous works.
Meanwhile, Salman Khan has faced criticism for his lackluster portrayal in Sikandar, as viewers express disappointment online. Technical critiques have also surfaced, with many deeming it one of Murugadoss’ weaker projects. Despite his impressive track record, with hits like Thuppakki, Sarkar, and Kaththi, Murugadoss appears to have stumbled this time. Although Sikandar might achieve financial success, concerns over its sustainability at the box office persist.
Murugadoss boasts a remarkable success ratio of 84.6% at the box office, with a high IMDb average of 8 across his 13 movies. With 46% of his films reaching blockbuster status, Sikandar risks being classified amongst his lesser successful projects. This performance setback has sparked discussions about the film’s long-term impact and what the future might hold for both Salman Khan and AR Murugadoss.
As Salman Khan’s role in Sikandar continues to ignite debate, industry observers and fans alike are left questioning the trajectory of both Salman Khan and Murugadoss’ careers in the wake of this unforeseen challenge. The film’s reception underscores the unpredictable nature of the entertainment world, highlighting the delicate balance between creative vision, audience expectations, and market trends.
