The much-anticipated war drama 'Ikkis', directed by the acclaimed Sriram Raghavan and featuring the debut of Agastya Nanda, has landed with a disappointing thud. Released on 02 January 2026, the film, intended as an ode to a war hero, struggles under the weight of its own narrative flaws and an unconvincing central performance, earning a modest 2.5 out of 5 stars in initial reviews.
A Promising Premise Undermined by Execution
On paper, 'Ikkis' had all the elements of a compelling cinematic experience. With Sriram Raghavan, known for his sharp thrillers, at the helm and veteran actors like Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat in the cast, expectations were naturally high. The film aims to pay tribute to the valour and sacrifice of a military hero, a theme that resonates deeply with Indian audiences. However, the final product reveals a significant gap between intention and execution.
Agastya Nanda's Restrained and Stiff Debut
All eyes were on newcomer Agastya Nanda, making his big-screen entry with this prestigious project. While it is evident that the young actor gives it his all, his performance ultimately feels restrained and lacking in conviction. Critics have noted a visible stiffness in his demeanour, which extends to both his dialogue delivery and emotional expressions. This restraint prevents the audience from fully connecting with the character he portrays, making the heroic journey feel distant and unconvincing.
The Core Problem: A Loosely Stitched Screenplay
The film's most critical flaw lies in its foundation—the screenplay. Described as 'loosely stitched', the narrative lacks the tight, gripping pace that defines Raghavan's best work. The plot meanders, and crucial moments that should evoke patriotism or empathy fail to land with the intended impact. This structural weakness bogs down the entire film, leaving even the seasoned performers like Dharmendra and Ahlawat with little solid ground to elevate the material.
Final Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
In conclusion, 'Ikkis' stands as a missed opportunity in the realm of Indian war dramas. Despite a powerful real-life story and a talented director, the film is let down by a faltering screenplay and a central performance that doesn't quite hit the mark. For fans of Sriram Raghavan, it's a departure from his signature style that doesn't fully succeed. For audiences seeking a powerful tribute to military heroes, the film, unfortunately, doesn't live up to its noble premise. The review published on 02 January 2026, at 06:17 IST, captures the collective disappointment of a project that promised more than it delivered.
