The cinematic calendar for the new year kicked off on a deeply emotional and compelling note with the release of Ikkis, the highly anticipated war drama directed by National Award winner Sriram Raghavan. The film, which hit screens on January 1, 2026, carried the weight of dual significance: marking the big-screen debut of newcomer Agastya Nanda and, poignantly, serving as the final cinematic outing for the late, legendary actor Dharmendra. Early reviews and audience reactions flooding the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) have been overwhelmingly heartwarming, praising the film's sensitivity, powerful performances, and unique take on the war genre.

 Dharmendra’s Final Bow: A Performance Anchored in Grace

The most moving aspect of the audience response revolves around Dharmendra. Having passed away recently, seeing the veteran on screen one last time left many viewers profoundly emotional. Across countless posts, fans celebrated the actor’s role as Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, the father of the war hero.

Dharmendra's performance has been hailed for its magnetic screen presence and restrained, yet deeply moving, dialogue delivery. Viewers noted that the actor lit up the screen with a sublime grace and an emotional depth only a legend can bring. His scenes with co-star Jaideep Ahlawat, which form a unique, high-stakes emotional core in the film, have been singled out as the narrative's biggest highlight. His dignified portrayal of a father grappling with loss and reflecting on the futility of conflict provides the film with its soul and gravitas.

Agastya Nanda’s Confident Debut: Sincerity Over Spectacle

While all eyes were on the debut of Agastya Nanda, who portrays the central figure, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the young actor has delivered a confident and sincere performance that has silenced initial doubts. The film’s decision to cast an actor close to Khetarpal's real age (21) added authenticity to the role.

X reviews praise Agastya for looking the part and delivering a controlled performance that showcases a commendable blend of vulnerability, sincerity, and the enthusiasm needed for a young officer thrust into war. Fans noted that he handles the responsibility of portraying a real-life war hero with maturity, suggesting that he is in the industry for a "long innings."

The War Film That Trusts Silence Over Slogans

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, known for his masterful thrillers, Ikkis is being praised for being a sensitive and "brave attempt" at the war genre. While some reviewers noted minor "rough edges" or an inconsistent pace, particularly in the first half, the deep emotional power of the narrative more than compensates. The second half, in particular, has been described as intense, immersive, and emotionally gripping, building towards a powerful, poignant finale.

Crucially, many viewers celebrated the film for successfully transcending the often-jingoistic nature of contemporary war biopics. Ikkis avoids chest-thumping patriotism, instead choosing to honour sacrifice and reflect on loss, grief, and the human cost of war, a theme that truly resonates with the audience and sets it apart as a thoughtful, heartfelt tribute.
Read Also: Beyond Stardom: Shah Rukh Khan's Proud Dad Moment Recording Son AbRam's Viral School Performance
Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!
HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!