Sat Nov 30 05:13:07 UTC 2024: ## Neeraj Pandey’s “Sikandar Ka Muqaddar” Falls Short of Heist Thriller Expectations

**Mumbai, India** – Acclaimed director Neeraj Pandey, known for his gripping heist dramas like *Special 26*, returns with *Sikandar Ka Muqaddar*, a film that unfortunately fails to reach the heights of his previous work. While boasting strong performances and a captivating premise – a 15-year-old mystery surrounding a Rs 50 crore diamond heist – the film suffers from pacing issues and a weak screenplay.

The movie, focusing on the cat-and-mouse chase between a suspected thief (Avinash Tiwary) and a determined investigating officer (Jimmy Shergill), is hampered by its excessively long runtime. Clocking in at nearly two and a half hours, the narrative feels bloated, with unnecessary flashbacks and a drawn-out climax that diminishes the suspense. The screenplay, penned by Pandey himself, contains noticeable loopholes, and the editing could have been significantly improved to enhance the overall thrill. Even the signature sepia tone, while visually striking, feels overused.

Despite these flaws, *Sikandar Ka Muqaddar* isn’t entirely without merit. The performances are universally praised, with Tiwary delivering a nuanced portrayal of the accused man, and Shergill bringing a new dimension to his familiar on-screen cop persona. Tamannaah Bhatia and Rajeev Mehta also contribute commendable performances in supporting roles. Pandey’s directorial skill is evident in moments like the single-shot robbery sequence, which effectively grabs the viewer’s attention.

However, the film’s flaws ultimately outweigh its strengths. While a compelling one-time watch, *Sikandar Ka Muqaddar* falls short of being a truly great heist thriller, leaving viewers hoping that a potential sequel will address the shortcomings of the original. The film ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the door open for a possible continuation.

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