protagonist–antagonist
Bollywood

2025’s fresh wave of high-octane thrillers led by never-seen-before protagonist–antagonist pairings!

Cine Reporter

Romantic duos may have ruled the hearts of Indian cinema lovers for decades, but it’s the hero–villain showdowns that also make a strong impact.

From Gabbar vs Thakur in Sholay to #AnilKapoor vs #AmrishPuri in Mr. India, these rivalries have become part of cinematic legend.

Now, the big screen is set to erupt again — fire, fury, and full-blown action are back. 2025 is bringing a fresh wave of high-octane thrillers led by never-seen-before protagonist–antagonist pairings, promising intense drama, iconic lines, and goosebump-inducing face-offs.

Here’s a look at the heavyweight battles lined up to thrill audiences and storm the box office:

#SanjayDutt vs #TigerShroff — #Baaghi4 – After the super success of Housefull 5, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment returns with another full blown commercial entertainer with Baaghi 4.

Sajid Nadiadwala’s Baaghi 4 raises the stakes, pitting two powerhouses — Sanjay Dutt and Tiger Shroff against each other for the first time. Dutt brings his trademark intensity, Tiger delivers jaw-dropping stunts, and together they set the stage for an all-out war carved in blood, sweat, and vengeance. Every punch will tell a story. Releasing 5 September.

#HrithikRoshan vs #JrNTR — #War2 – Yash Raj Films cranks up the scale with War 2, a clash of titans that’s already creating waves. Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR in the same frame isn’t just a film — it’s a cinematic event. Expect stylish combat, swagger, and set pieces designed to make theatres roar. Releasing 14 August.

#Rajinikanth vs #Nagarjuna — #Coolie – South India’s mega showdown. Two legends. One battlefield. Coolie promises a mass-cinema celebration with an adrenaline-pumping face-off that blends style, emotion, and sheer star power. Releasing 14 August.

#RanveerSingh vs #AkshayeKhanna — #Dhurandhar – The quirky meets the calculated. Ranveer Singh brings the madness, Akshaye Khanna brings the mind, and together they set up a duel driven by sharp performances, psychological games, and unpredictable moves. A bilingual drama with a twist at every turn. Releasing 5 December.

By Keerti Kadam