A Review of the Sci-Fi Epic Starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Amitabh Bachchan
Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, has taken the Indian film industry by storm with its visually stunning and action-packed narrative. The film, set in the year 2898 AD, is a dystopian sci-fi epic that combines elements of Hindu mythology with futuristic themes, making it a unique cinematic experience.
Storyline and Visuals
The film begins with a gripping depiction of the aftermath of the Mahabharata war, where Lord Krishna curses Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan) with immortality. This sets the stage for a fictional narrative within a star-studded cinematic universe deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. The story revolves around the tenth avatar of Lord Vishnu, Kalki, who is prophesied to arrive on a white horse, signalling the end of the Kali Yuga.
The film’s visual quality is its biggest strength, transporting viewers into a vividly imagined universe. The production design by Nitin Zihani Choudhary is breathtaking, creating incredibly startling spaces, settings, and backdrops that enhance the film’s depth and dimensions. The action sequences, filmed by Belgrade-based cinematographer Djordje Stojiljkovic, are staged with striking felicity, and the special effects are of a high enough order not to undermine the overall impact of the film.
Cast and Performances
Prabhas, the headliner, plays Bhairava, a bounty hunter and fighter who has never tasted defeat. He works with a robotic droid to capture fugitives and dissidents and deliver them to ‘The Complex’, the nerve centre of the evil empire run by Commander Manas (Saswata Chatterjee). Deepika Padukone stars as SUM80, the bearer of the awaited avatar, and Kamal Haasan plays God King Supreme Yaskin, who lives in a mysterious powerhouse known as Complex.
Amitabh Bachchan shines as Ashwatthama, the mighty saviour who has survived several ‘sadis’ from the age of the Mahabharat to ‘kaliyuga’. His performance is suitably gravelly and epic-like, as he sets about roundly bashing and punching poor Bhairava in one of the best set-pieces in the film.
Critical Reception
Early reviews suggest that the film has opened to positive reviews, with fans showering praise on the film. Critics have noted that the first half is a bit slow, but the second half redeems the film with its action-packed sequences and stunning visuals. The film’s convoluted plot and lack of drama and emotions have been criticized, but its sheer scale and ambition have been praised.
Box Office Expectations
Projected to earn over Rs 120 crore in India and Rs 60 crore overseas, totalling over Rs 180 crore on its first day, Kalki 2898 AD is all set for a spectacular box-office opening. According to Sacnilk, the film is expected to reach Rs 200 crore on its opening day. The film has already garnered around Rs 21.17 crore (India nett) on its first day across all languages.
Conclusion
Kalki 2898 AD is a visual spectacle that blends ancient and futuristic elements, offering a unique cinematic experience. While it has its flaws, the film’s stunning visuals, action sequences, and performances make it a must-watch. With its ambitious scope and scale, it is poised to become a significant milestone in Indian cinema.
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