On July 14th, I had the opportunity to watch “Kalki 2898 AD” at PVR in Punjagutta Mall, Hyderabad. This highly anticipated film, featuring prominent stars like Deepika Padukone, Prabhas, and Amitabh Bachchan, promised an epic blend of mythology and science fiction. Set in a dystopian future, it reimagines the Mahabharata in a world ravaged by environmental neglect. With a visually stunning depiction of 2898 AD, “Kalki 2898 AD” merges ancient tales with futuristic technology, offering a unique cinematic experience. Here’s my detailed review of this ambitious film.
Initial Impressions
Walking into the theater, I was excited but also a bit skeptical. The trailer promised a grand spectacle, but would it live up to the hype? The opening scenes were visually stunning, immediately showcasing the film’s impressive VFX. As my brother is a technical artist, I have a good understanding of visual effects, and I would rate the VFX in “Kalki 2898 AD” a solid 9 out of 10. The depiction of a futuristic world in 2898 AD was both breathtaking and thought-provoking.
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Story and Setting
The film’s storyline is heavily inspired by Hindu mythology, particularly the Mahabharata. It imagines a dystopian future where humanity has neglected the environment to the point of near destruction. The narrative is set in a world without natural oxygen, water, or food – a stark warning about the consequences of our current environmental disregard.
In this world, we meet Bhairava (Prabhas), a bounty hunter with a sharp sense of humor. His character quickly became my favorite, bringing much-needed levity to an otherwise intense narrative. Prabhas’s performance is charismatic and engaging, making Bhairava a memorable character.
Characters and Performances
Amitabh Bachchan portrays Ashwatthama, a character from the Mahabharata cursed with immortality. His presence in the film is commanding, and his performance as Ashwatthama is one of the highlights. Bachchan’s portrayal adds depth and gravitas to the film.
Deepika Padukone plays Sumathi, who is destined to be the mother of Kalki, the prophesied avatar of Lord Krishna. Her character is central to the plot, and Padukone brings a mix of strength and vulnerability to the role. The dynamics between her, Bhairava, and Ashwatthama drive much of the film’s emotional core.
Mythological Elements
The film beautifully weaves elements of the Mahabharata into its futuristic setting. Characters like Arjuna and Karna are referenced, and their legacies play crucial roles in the story. This blend of mythology with science fiction is both ambitious and intriguing. It offers a fresh take on familiar stories, making them relevant to contemporary audiences.
Visual Effects and Technical Aspects
As mentioned, the VFX in “Kalki 2898 AD” is top-notch. The depiction of the post-apocalyptic world is detailed and immersive. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the futuristic technology is imaginatively designed. The film’s production values are high, and it is clear that a lot of effort went into creating a visually stunning experience.
However, the film does have its flaws. The pacing is uneven at times, with some scenes dragging on while others feel rushed. The narrative can be confusing, especially for viewers not familiar with the Mahabharata. There are moments where the story feels convoluted, trying to juggle too many elements at once.
Once @nagashwin7 said.. Aa character baruvu mosey range india lone evvadiki ledu and my Man literally nailed ittt in glimpse…🔥💥🔥💥 #Prabhas
Looks, aa custumes.. just Ramp Ramp anthe..🥵🥵🥵🥹🥹🥹 #Kalki pic.twitter.com/rzFGSAgm7V
— SJV.. (@Javeeddh_) July 20, 2023
Themes and Messages
“Kalki 2898 AD” is not just a visual spectacle; it also carries important messages. The film highlights the importance of protecting the environment and the dire consequences of neglect. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to take better care of our planet. The film also explores themes of destiny, redemption, and the eternal battle between good and evil.
Conclusion
So, is “Kalki 2898 AD” a great choice to watch? It depends on what you are looking for. If you enjoy grand visuals, mythological narratives, and strong performances, this film is worth watching. The VFX alone makes it a cinematic experience that should be seen on the big screen. Prabhas’s entertaining performance and Amitabh Bachchan’s gravitas are additional reasons to watch the film.
However, if you prefer straightforward storytelling and are not a fan of mythology-based narratives, the film might not be to your taste. The complex plot and uneven pacing can be off-putting for some viewers.
Overall, I would rate “Kalki 2898 AD” as an average movie with spectacular visuals and commendable performances. It is a bold and ambitious film that offers a unique blend of mythology and science fiction. While it has its flaws, it also has moments of brilliance that make it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
“Kalki 2898 AD” offers a visually stunning experience with its top-notch VFX and captivating performances, particularly by Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan. The film’s ambitious blend of mythology and science fiction creates a unique narrative, though it can be confusing at times. While the story has its flaws, the movie serves as a stark reminder of environmental neglect and the eternal struggle between good and evil. If you’re a fan of epic visuals and mythological tales, this film is worth a watch.
If you are a fan of any of the major stars or enjoy epic science fiction, “Kalki 2898 AD” is definitely worth a watch. Just go in with the expectation of experiencing a visual treat rather than a flawless narrative, and you will likely enjoy the film. To know more brutal reviews about other movies, or anything related to travel, food, and more, visit my website again. See you next time!
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