Trade insiders and fans are under the impression that Salman Khan signed Sikander on a whim, without much consideration, resulting in this disaster. However, that’s not the reality. After Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, he didn’t immediately sign any new films, and Tiger 3 was already facing delays later in 2023. When Tiger 3 eventually released and underperformed, he had plans to start a few projects, but they all fell through. It was only then that he began actively searching for scripts. Together with Sajid, he finalized a script by AR Murugadoss that resonated with them as a continuation of Kick, following a similar pattern: a wealthy man helping people everywhere, even at the expense of his own family, ultimately driving societal change. The film includes 4-5 action sequences, a formidable villain, and all the usual elements. It carries shades of Jai Ho and Jawan. They cast one of the most successful leading ladies of recent times, Rashmika Mandanna, and even for a small role, they roped in Kajal Aggarwal. The iconic Kattappa was chosen as the main antagonist. How can anyone say this isn’t a well-thought-out project?
This is a far more meticulously planned endeavor than Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, which was a lazy remake of a decade-old Tamil film. The problem doesn’t lie in the project itself or the thought process behind it. It’s about the effort—or lack thereof—that’s evident on screen, where Salman Khan appears severely disinterested. Public enthusiasm for his films has taken a serious hit. When that happens, even average movies seem worse, and good ones flop too. People keep shouting from the rooftops that if Salman picks a great script, his stardom—still intact—could easily deliver a 1000-crore hit. But that’s not the truth. Historically, Salman never relied on scripts for success. During his peak, films like Kick, Bodyguard, and others worked regardless of their quality. Now, even with a thoughtful approach, his on-screen effort feels uninspired and dull.
Many also downplay the resurgence of Pathaan and Jawan as nothing extraordinary, claiming any star could achieve it anytime. But for actors nearing 60, this slump is a common challenge. Most never recover and continue their decline. I don’t think Salman will fully succumb to that fate—he can still deliver hits sporadically—but those dreaming of him reaching a new peak are deluding themselves. That era is over. The core issue is his on-screen performance. He’s no longer able to act or dance like he did a decade ago. For those heavily into weightlifting, their bodies stiffen over time, and that’s what’s happening to Salman. He lacks agility on screen, appearing rigid with no movement in his facial muscles.
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