Ikkis review: Dharmendra's last onscreen presence leaves fans emotional; Agastya Nanda's debut falls flat

Today, January 1, 2025, began on an emotional and patriotic note for cinephiles as veteran actor Dharmendra's last film, Ikkis, hit cinema halls. Agastya Nanda makes his big-screen debut with the war film Ikkis, which showcases the life and bravery of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, the film centres on the heroism of Khetarpal, India's youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient.

Ikkis's anti-war stance doesn't boast patriotism. Instead of leaning into jingoism, the film humanises Pakistani soldiers and highlights moments of mutual respect. It portrays the bravery of the Indian side while also showing empathy towards Pakistani soldiers, showcasing the sufferings on both sides of the border.

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film has received mixed responses. While many have lauded the director for presenting a humanised portrayal of war, others believe the film is not anti-Pakistan but rather emphasises that Pakistanis, like Indians, also bear the cost of conflict.

The film is based on the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who earned India's highest wartime gallantry award during the 1971 war.

Here are some tweets you should consider before watching this action-packed film on the big screen.

Agastya Nanda's debut performance, combined with the film's emotional core, is expected to give goosebumps to every patriot. Since Ikkis marks legendary actor Dharmendra's final project, it holds a special place in the hearts of his fans. 

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), a user penned, "IKKIS isn't just a war film. It's a deeply human story of courage, sacrifice, reconciliation & the emotional cost of service." Another one stated, "Just watched #Ikkis..what an amazingly well-made movie, perfectly executed performances by every single actor. #AgastyaNanda is THE real deal! #JaideepAhlawat is a true genius! It was emotional to see #DharamJi. Forever indebted to bravehearts like 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal."

Give five stars to the film, a user opined, "#Ikkis is simply outstanding cinema #Dharmendra ji gets a fitting farewell with a nuanced role #AgastyaNanda is a star to watch out for, the direction is noteworthy, and this is absolutely amazing first release of the year."

A user expressed, "There is a tenderness in Dharam Ji's presence on screen that just organically makes you well up. No wonder he was loved for so many years! One last time."

"Ikkis doesn't scream patriotism; it earns it. A war film that trusts silence over slogans, emotion over excess, and truth over theatrics. The impact stays long after the screen fades to black," a viewer noted. "This film is not about glorifying war, it's about honouring sacrifice, dignity, and the unseen courage of soldiers who never ask to be celebrated. This isn't just a film you watch. It's a film you carry with you."

"Ikkis is about what remains after the battlefield falls silent. It explores love, duty, grief, and the enduring human spirit—emotions that transcend borders, uniforms, and politics. By choosing empathy over glory, the film achieves something rare in modern-war cinema," said a user.

Another mentioned, "This Ikkis is literally Aman ki Asha on steroids. Movie shuru hote hi khatam! Interesting that they released it just months after Pehalgam and air strikes. Isse achha toh dobara Dhurandhar dekh lo.."

Helmed by Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Binny Padda, the movie also stars Nanda in the lead role. He is joined by an ensemble cast including Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Simar Bhatia.