Heist dramas are fan favorites. No matter your mood—sad, happy, or heartbroken—a gripping heist story can always brighten your day. However, in recent times, the genre seems to be losing its spark. Audiences have grown more discerning, and the formulaic approach to storytelling has left many heist dramas feeling underwhelming.
In Hollywood, the genre has seen a mix of hits and misses recently. Army of Thieves tried to capitalize on the popularity of Army of the Dead, but its overly predictable plot and lack of depth didn’t resonate with audiences.
Similarly, Red Notice, despite its star-studded cast, leaned more on humor and star power than a compelling heist narrative. On the other hand, Money Heist, the global sensation from Spain, maintained its grip on viewers but fizzled out slightly in its final season, with some fans criticizing it for stretching the story too far.
Bollywood’s attempts at heist dramas have also been a mixed bag. Films like Dhoom 3 and Baadshaho failed to deliver on the expectations of tight storytelling, relying more on spectacle than substance. Even Bank Chor, which had potential, lost its way with an inconsistent tone. However, the genre hasn’t been entirely bleak—movies like Special 26, ironically helmed by Neeraj Pandey, remain iconic for their intelligent writing and execution. But unfortunately, the same brilliance is missing in his latest outing, Sikandar Ka Muqaddar.
Coming to Sikandar Ka Muqaddar, it had all the ingredients for a solid heist drama—a veteran director, a strong cast, and the promise of high-stakes drama. Yet, the film falls short on almost every front. The writing lacks the sharpness needed for a gripping heist story, with a predictable narrative that offers no real surprises. In a genre where tension and twists are key, the film meanders without building any real momentum.
The cast tries to salvage the film, but even their performances can’t overcome the weak script. Jimmy Shergill does his best with the material, showcasing his usual intensity. Tamannaah Bhatia, unfortunately, is saddled with a poorly written character that underutilizes her talents. Her moments of brilliance are fleeting, overshadowed by the overall blandness of her role.
Sikandar Ka Muqaddar ends up as another addition to the growing list of disappointing heist dramas. While it may work as a one-time watch for undemanding viewers, it lacks the ingenuity and excitement that define the best films in the genre. Now streaming on Netflix India, it serves as a reminder that even proven filmmakers like Neeraj Pandey can miss the mark.