Special 26 is not one of those mindless entertainers with leave-your-brains-at-home attitude. You may assume it's one because Akshay Kumar is synonymous with films like Housefull series, Rowdy Rathore and Khiladi 786. Special 26, which borrows from real-life incidents, is a heist drama, has no forced humor, no South-styled stunts, no song-and-dance routine with foreign dancers in the background. Special 26 is more of a 'treatment' movie, a plot-driven fare. So, there! Special 26 may be a fictionalized account of events that occurred in the 1980s, but Neeraj ensures it does not transform into a dry film/documentary that focuses completely and absolutely on the incidents. The film has the soul of a thriller and the director makes sure that it not only enlightens to the present-day viewer, but entertains as well. While the volatile plot and enthralling drama catches your attention, the execution of the written material, besides proficient performances from each and every member of the cast, makes Special 26 a game changer, a worthy follow up to the director's A Wednesday.

Akshay Kumar does a complete U-turn with Special 26. Deviating from the comic/action roles he is recognized for, Akshay truly reinvents himself with Special 26. No two opinions on that. This is, without doubt, one of the most challenging roles in his career and the seasoned actor enacts it with complete authority. Not only will Akshay's fans adore him in this new avatar, even the skeptical types will applaud this superb act.