Read our review of Sikandar Ka Muqaddar, Neeraj Pandey’s gripping Netflix thriller featuring Jimmy Shergill, Tamannaah Bhatia, and Avinash Tiwary. Packed with twists and strong performances, it’s a rare Bollywood gem!
Director: Neeraj Pandey
Cast: Jimmy Shergill, Avinash Tiwary, Tamannaah Bhatia, Rajeev Mehta, Divya Dutta, Ridhima Pandit, Ashrut Jain
Platform: Netflix
Genre: Suspense Thriller
A Rare Bollywood Gem with Layers of Intrigue
Neeraj Pandey’s Sikandar Ka Muqaddar is a gripping mix of suspense, character drama, and unexpected twists that sets it apart in Bollywood’s thriller genre. The story revolves around a high-profile jewellery heist at an exhibition in Mumbai. Chief investigator Jaswinder Singh (Jimmy Shergill) narrows down three suspects: long-time jewellery store employee Mangesh Desai (Rajeev Mehta), his colleague Kamini (Tamannaah Bhatia), and computer techie Sikandar Sharma (Avinash Tiwary). What seems like a straightforward whodunit transforms into a layered tale of human behavior, obsession, and consequences over a 15-year period.
Plot & Writing
The screenplay, co-written by Neeraj Pandey and Vipul K Rawal, ensures a simmering suspense that rarely falters. The film deftly balances a pulpy character study with thrilling plot twists. Though some contrived moments and plot holes appear, they are forgivable thanks to the engaging narrative. The 15-year arc, explored through flashbacks, adds depth as it examines how one event can alter lives in unimaginable ways.
Performances
The cast is the film’s backbone.
- Jimmy Shergill delivers a nuanced performance as Jaswinder, portraying a man driven by obsession and haunted by past failures.
- Tamannaah Bhatia shines in her layered role, proving she is more than a glamorous star.
- Avinash Tiwary continues his streak of stellar performances, bringing charm and mystery to Sikandar.
- Rajeev Mehta, often relegated to minor roles, gets his due here with a memorable performance.
- Divya Dutta makes a lasting impact, despite limited screen time.
Strengths
- Twists and Turns: The narrative constantly surprises viewers, keeping them hooked.
- Character-Driven Plot: Each character adds complexity, making the film more than just a heist story.
- OTT Flexibility: Without the constraints of box-office expectations, the film prioritizes story over star power.
Weaknesses
- Underdeveloped Characters: Some side characters deserved more depth.
- Makeup Issues: The attempt to age characters over 15 years is occasionally unconvincing.
Verdict
Sikandar Ka Muqaddar is a rare Bollywood film that combines thrilling twists with a deep dive into human motives and consequences. With strong performances and a gripping narrative, it’s a must-watch for fans of suspense dramas. Neeraj Pandey once again proves his mettle as a storyteller, delivering a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
