Salman Khan’s Sikandar has arrived with much fanfare, marking his big Eid release of 2025. Directed by A.R. Murugadoss and co-starring Rashmika Mandanna, the film has been one of the most highly anticipated Bollywood ventures of the year. With a blend of action, emotions, and a socially relevant message, Sikandar had the potential to be a game-changer. However, in our Sikandar review roundup, the reviews from critics and audiences paint a divided picture. While some hail it as a high-octane mass entertainer, others criticize it for its outdated storytelling and lack of innovation. Let’s explore the different perspectives on Sikandar from critics, fans, and industry experts.
Sikandar Review: A Divisive Affair
Negative Reviews
The Indian Express – The publication delivers a scathing review, calling Sikandar a “colossal misfire.” It criticizes the film’s uninspired screenplay, predictable action sequences, and lack of fresh storytelling. Despite Salman Khan’s immense screen presence, the film fails to rise above its clichés, making it a forgettable venture.
Hindustan Times – This review highlights the film’s weak storytelling and forgettable performances, stating that Sikandar is another example of a star-driven film that prioritizes spectacle over substance. The emotional beats feel forced, and while Salman Khan commands attention, his performance alone isn’t enough to salvage the underwhelming narrative.
123telugu.com – Criticizes the film as a “poorly written and executed action drama.” The review points out logical inconsistencies in the plot, the lack of depth in character development, and an overall failure to fully explore the themes it introduces. Despite some well-choreographed action sequences, the film doesn’t offer anything groundbreaking.
Scroll – Describes Sikandar as “formulaic to the core,” stating that it relies too heavily on Salman Khan’s star power rather than crafting an engaging narrative. The review critiques the film’s predictable twists and lack of compelling emotional stakes.
Mixed Reviews
Bollywood Hungama (2.5/5) – While praising Sikandar for incorporating a social message, the review criticizes the screenplay’s uneven pacing and predictable execution. The first half builds up an intriguing premise, but the second half falters with rushed emotional moments and over-the-top action that doesn’t always land effectively.
The Times of India – Offers a mixed-to-positive review, acknowledging that while the script has flaws, Sikandar delivers on its promise of a mass entertainer. The action sequences and Salman Khan’s presence work in its favor, and while the film may not win over all critics, social media reactions indicate that fans are loving it.
Koimoi – States that Sikandar is an “Eid feast for Salman fans but an average film for everyone else.” While the action and grandeur are entertaining, the film suffers from a weak screenplay and underdeveloped supporting characters. However, it commends the climax for delivering an emotional punch.
Positive Reviews & Director’s Perspective
India Today – Takes a balanced stance, noting that while Sikandar doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it succeeds in delivering a spectacle for fans. The publication appreciates the film’s well-shot action sequences and Salman Khan’s presence but acknowledges that it lacks depth in storytelling.
The Times of India (Director’s Quote) – Director A.R. Murugadoss stands by his film, claiming that Sikandar has emotional depth comparable to Ghajini. He believes that the film strikes a balance between action and emotion, providing audiences with a story that is not just about spectacle but also has a heartfelt core.
The Economic Times – Covers the excitement leading up to the release, highlighting fan enthusiasm for the teaser and the film’s futuristic themes. The buzz surrounding Sikandar was immense, and its advance bookings reflected the anticipation among Salman Khan’s loyal fanbase.
Fan Reactions: A Different Story?
Network 18 – Reports an overwhelmingly positive response from fans, with first-day-first-show audiences calling Sikandar a “paisa vasool” and “whistle-worthy” entertainer. Many fans particularly praised the action sequences, Salman Khan’s screen presence, and the film’s larger-than-life appeal.
Social Media Buzz – On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fan reactions have been largely enthusiastic. Some highlighted the film’s powerful background score, while others appreciated its emotional moments, particularly in the climax. Many have compared Sikandar to Salman Khan’s past hits like Wanted and Sultan, stating that it delivers the kind of action-packed entertainment they expect from the superstar.
Advance Booking & Box Office Prospects – Reports indicate that Sikandar had a strong start at the box office, with over Rs 8.81 crore in advance bookings alone. The film’s initial success suggests that Salman Khan still holds immense crowd-pulling power, regardless of mixed critical reception.
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Conclusion: A Film for the Masses?
The response to Sikandar remains sharply divided. While critics point out its weak writing and outdated storytelling, fans have embraced it as a quintessential Salman Khan action spectacle. Those looking for an engaging narrative might be left wanting, but audiences in search of high-energy action and larger-than-life moments will likely enjoy it.
Film Details:
Cast: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Prateik Babbar
Director: A.R. Murugadoss
Music: Pritam
Cinematography: S. Thirunavukarasu
Editing: Vivek Harshan
Synopsis:
Sikandar follows Sanjay Rajkot (Salman Khan), a powerful and charismatic figure who finds himself at odds with a corrupt politician while struggling to honor his late wife’s memory. When the lives of those who received her donated organs are threatened, he embarks on a mission to protect them, leading to an action-packed showdown.
With its grand scale, action-packed moments, and larger-than-life hero, Sikandar is undoubtedly an Eid gift for Salman’s loyal fanbase, even if it falls short in innovation for general audiences.
