A predictable but mildly engaging revenge drama that doesn’t justify its runtime. Only for die-hard fans of the genre.

The lead actor tries hard but often resorts to shouting to convey anger. Supporting actors range from effective (the antagonist) to wooden (the love interest). The lack of a known, seasoned cast means no one elevates the weak dialogue.

Shikhari (2024) is a film with a heart in the right place—wanting to show the rage of the powerless—but its execution is trapped in clichés. It hunts for authenticity but often misses the target. As a time-pass weekend watch on OTT, it might suffice. For a truly memorable action thriller, look elsewhere.

The first 30 minutes are a slog of exposition. The middle act drags with songs (often misplaced) and subplots that go nowhere. At over 2 hours 15 minutes, the film would benefit from cutting 20–25 minutes of repetitive "suffering" montages.

The last 20 minutes manage to deliver a satisfying, if predictable, face-off. The villain’s comeuppance is visceral, and the film doesn’t shy away from showing moral ambiguity—the hero isn’t entirely clean by the end. What Doesn’t Work 1. Derivative Screenplay If you’ve seen Gangs of Wasseypur , Kahaani , or any "small-town vigilante" film from the last decade, you’ve seen the beats of Shikhari . The corrupt cop, the helpless mother, the betrayed sidekick—all are present without any fresh twist. The plot becomes painfully predictable by the interval.