Ikka review: Sunny Deol, Akshaye Khanna courtroom thriller is two decades late

In the latest legal drama from the Indian film industry, Ikka (2026), director Siddharth P Malhotra presents a courtroom thriller that explores the complexities of justice, morality, and personal sacrifice. The film centers on the intertwined lives of defense attorney Arjun and his client, the controversial figure Shouryamann. Played by Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna respectively, these two actors bring their distinct screen personas to the forefront, creating a dynamic that drives the narrative forward. The plot begins with a dramatic incident involving Soma, a young woman who is severely injured after being thrown from a speeding car while on a night out with Shouryamann. This tragic event leads to a high-stakes legal battle, where Arjun, known for his integrity and success, finds himself representing a defendant whose guilt is widely presumed. Despite initial reluctance, Arjun takes on the case, driven by both professional duty and personal circumstances. His daughter, a promising athlete, faces a serious medical condition requiring a bone marrow transplant, which forces him to confront the ethical implications of his decisions. Arjun's journey is marked by internal conflict as he navigates the moral ambiguity of defending someone accused of a grave crime. His interactions with the prosecution, led by Madhura, highlight the tension between legal principles and personal ethics. Meanwhile, Shouryamann, portrayed by Akshaye Khanna, is depicted as a charismatic yet morally ambiguous character, whose actions and demeanor reflect the complexities of privilege and responsibility. The supporting cast includes Dia Mirza as Arjun's wife, who plays a pivotal role in influencing his decision to take on the case. Sanjeeda Shaikh portrays Shouryamann's wife, Gauri, whose limited screen presence underscores the broader themes of gender roles and societal expectations within the narrative. The film also features Jyoti Mukerjee as Soma's mother, whose emotional breakdown serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of legal proceedings. Critics have noted that while the film attempts to blend elements of legal drama with personal storytelling, it sometimes struggles with pacing and narrative coherence. The extended runtime and multiple twists have drawn mixed reviews, though many acknowledge the performances of Deol and Khanna as standout elements. Deol's portrayal of Arjun captures the essence of a principled lawyer, balancing professionalism with emotional depth. Khanna's performance as Shouryamann, however, has been described as somewhat formulaic, relying heavily on established tropes of arrogance and entitlement. The film's exploration of legal ethics and social inequality resonates with contemporary discussions on justice and fairness. However, some critics argue that the narrative could have benefited from deeper character development and more nuanced exploration of the legal system's flaws. Despite these criticisms, Ikka remains a notable entry in the legal drama genre, offering a compelling look at the intersection of personal and professional challenges in the pursuit of justice.