Sikandar Ka Muqaddar Movie Review: Neeraj Pandey’s Bold Netflix Thriller Will Keep You Hooked

A jewellery exhibition in Mumbai turned from a glittering display to a chaotic crime scene when a daring heist unfolded right before the eyes of attendees. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the event, a frantic phone call set off alarms, and gunfire echoed through the venue. As panic spread, the police on duty ushered the terrified crowd into a safe area. However, in the ensuing confusion, a handful of precious gems vanished without a trace.

Chief investigator Jaswinder Singh, played by Jimmy Shergill, is tasked with solving the case. He quickly narrows his focus to three individuals who were present at the scene: Mangesh Desai (Rajeev Mehta), a long-time employee at the jewellery store; Kamini (Tamannaah Bhatia), a charming colleague; and Sikandar Sharma (Avinash Tiwary), a computer technician who seemed in a hurry to leave when the situation calmed down.

As Singh digs deeper, the suspects maintain their innocence. The more Singh presses them, the more they insist on their non-involvement. Are they truly innocent, or is something more sinister at play? With Singh's unblemished record for solving every case he's been assigned, this case presents a challenge that could tarnish his career, forcing him to question his instincts.

A Character-Driven Thriller with Twists and Turns

Neeraj Pandey, known for his sharp storytelling, brings a refreshing take to the genre, blending a heist narrative with a deeper character study. While the heist itself serves as the catalyst for the film, the true essence lies in exploring the personal journeys of the characters involved. Written by Pandey and Vipul K Rawal, the script masterfully weaves suspense, making every twist and turn of the plot unexpected and engaging.

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The film unfolds over a fifteen-year timeline, jumping between 2009, when the heist takes place, and the present, when the mystery is finally being uncovered. This non-linear storytelling adds a layer of depth, showing how a single event can drastically change the course of people's lives. The characters evolve over time, and while some makeup effects might look a little overdone, the progression of their lives feels authentic.

A Strong Ensemble Cast Drives the Narrative

The heart of the film lies in its stellar ensemble cast. Jaswinder Singh, a once-successful investigator now grappling with a career downfall, remains committed to his beliefs. Shergill plays this role with a sense of worn-out conviction, perfectly portraying a man torn between his obsession with solving the case and the realization that his career may never be the same.

Tamannaah Bhatia, often known for her roles in dance-heavy films, proves her versatility here. As Kamini, she brings a grounded and mysterious aura that adds to the film’s intrigue. Rajeev Mehta, typically cast in smaller roles, gets more screen time in this film and delivers a solid performance. Avinash Tiwary, fresh off his success with "Laila Majnu," continues to impress with his natural acting and nuanced portrayal of Sikandar Sharma.

While the film excels in many areas, it isn’t without its flaws. Some plot points feel contrived, and there are a few characters that could have been developed further. However, these minor issues are easy to overlook, especially given the film's ability to continuously surprise the audience. Every time a predictable moment seems to approach, the film throws in an unexpected twist, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.