Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis, the first Bollywood release of 2026, has opened to a warm and emotional response on X.
The film marks the debut of Agastya Nanda and also stands as Dharmendra’s final appearance on the big screen. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is being praised for its performances, emotional depth, and grounded storytelling.
Viewers on X have highlighted the film’s strong emotional pull, especially in the second half, which many found intense and immersive. While some reviews mention a few rough edges, audiences feel the film makes up for it with a deeply moving narrative that blends bravery, patriotism, and human emotion.
Several netizens drew parallels with earlier war films, noting that memorable war dramas go beyond action and rely on well-written characters and emotional moments. Ikkis, according to many viewers, follows the same path.
Film critic Taran Adarsh wrote on X, "The film also benefited from the presence of legendary actor #Dharmendra, whose final screen appearance happens to be #Ikkis. The film now needs to maintain this pace over the extended weekend to post a respectable total."
Netizens react on X
A fan reviewing the film during the interval posted, “It’s interval time, and so far it’s absolutely gripping — visually stunning and packed with the same thrill as #Fury.”
Sriram Raghavan’s direction has received consistent praise. One review read, “Director Sriram Raghavan is the soul of the film and after Badlapur and Andhadhun, he has once again proven himself. His work on storytelling, detailing, and technical aspects is excellent. Making the entire story feel real and rooted in authentic locations.”
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Another wrote, "Finally, a war movie that isn’t just shouting and noise. #Ikkis is quiet, intense, and deeply moving. Loved it."
Dharmendra’s presence has clearly struck an emotional chord with audiences. One user wrote, “Seeing Dharmendra on screen feels nostalgic, like watching a timeless tale unfold. Miss you already, Dharam Paaji.”
Another post said, “Dharmendra ji is sheer magic he owns the screen with grace, dignity, and an emotional depth that only a legend can bring.”
Summing up his performance, Taran Adarsh added, “Dharmendra, in his final film appearance, is simply brilliant… Present from start to finish, the veteran anchors the film with towering screen presence and restrained emotion, adding gravitas and soul to the narrative.”
Another viewer echoed the sentiment, writing, “Last film and he has delivered a brilliant performance. Especially in emotional scenes, he was absolutely top notch.”
Another user wrote, "#Ikkis is not just a war film, it’s an experience that quietly settles in your heart. The storytelling is restrained yet deeply powerful, allowing the emotions to breathe rather than forcing them."
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In the end, as per the reactions, it seems Ikkis leaves a lasting impression not because of scale or spectacle alone, but due to its emotional honesty and strong performances.
Guided by Sriram Raghavan’s grounded storytelling, the film may have its imperfections, but it resonates with viewers as a heartfelt war drama that stays with them even after the screen fades to black.
