Introduction:
Kalki 2898 AD is an ambitious science fiction movie made in India, which has been directed by Nag Ashwin who earlier worked on the well-received film named Mahanati. The movie is going to hit theatres on June 27, 2024, and combines mythical features with futuristic science fiction to discuss the battle between good and evil through a lens of Indian mythology and culture. Talking about its cast, it includes stars such as Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan, hence generating quite some interest before its release.
Release Date:
Kalki 2898 AD was, on June 27, 2024, launched worldwide. It was made accessible in several dialects like Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada thus reaching out to many people all around India and in the neighbouring nations as well.
Crew:
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director | Nag Ashwin |
| Screenplay | Nag Ashwin |
| Writer | Nag Ashwin |
| Producer | C. Aswani Dutt |
| Editor | Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao |
| Music Director | Santhosh Narayanan |
Cast:
| Actor/Actress | Role |
|---|---|
| Prabhas | Bhairava |
| Kamal Haasan | Supreme Yaskin |
| Deepika Padukone | Sum 80 |
| Amitabh Bachchan | Ashwatthama |
| Disha Patani | Roxie |
| Dulquer Salmaan | Pilot/ Captain |
| Anna Ben | Kyra |
| Malvika Nair | Uttarā |
| Mrunal Thakur | Divya |
| Djordje Stojiljkovic | Garuda |
| Shobana | Mariam |
| Keerthy Suresh | Bujji |
| Vijay Deverakonda | Arjun |
| Saswata Chatterjee | Commander Manas |
| Keya Nair | Raia |
| Faria Abdullah | Peacock |
| Anil George | Counsellor Bani |
| Brahmanandam | Rajan |
| Mandava Sai Kumar | Agent |
| Humhu | Krane |
| Pasupathy | Veeran |
| Ayaz Pasha | Ajju |
| Hamish Boyd | Yuri |
| Rajendra Prasad | Rumi |
| Md. Nadim Mostofa Jibon | Scientist |
Story:
Set in the year 2898 AD, Kalki 2898 AD introduces a world where the prophesied arrival of Lord Vishnu’s final avatar, Kalki, promises to usher in a new era amidst chaos and malevolence. The narrative centres on Bhairava (Prabhas), a bounty hunter, and his AI droid sidekick, Bujji (Keerthy Suresh), as they navigate a dystopian society ruled by the tyrannical Supreme Yaskin (Kamal Haasan). Bhairava embarks on a mission to protect Sumathi (Deepika Padukone), a pregnant woman targeted by the oppressive regime, all while the privileged elite exploit the suffering of the masses.
At the same time, Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan), a legendary figure from the Mahabharata, seeks redemption and becomes a pivotal force in the looming battle against the forces of darkness. As the characters confront their destinies, the story unfolds with intense conflict between power and resistance, weaving together elements of mythology and futuristic technology. The film builds towards the much-anticipated arrival of Kalki, setting the stage for a larger narrative that teases future instalments and deeper exploration of the mythic and sci-fi world.
Review:
Kalki 2898 AD has received mixed reviews from critics and the general public. It has been praised for its bold ambitions and grand visuals that set a benchmark for Indian science fiction cinema. Nag Ashwin’s directorial style is noted for blending Indian traditional tales with contemporary filmmaking methods to create an unforgettable visual experience.
However, some people have raised concerns about the speed of the movie. While many appreciate the intricacy of the storyline and character development, some feel parts of it drag on too long with three hours being too much time. Nonetheless, they say that highlight sequences including action are exhilarating showcasing what can be achieved using Indian special effects if they receive proper attention
Plus Points:
- Visual Spectacle: The film is a visual treat, featuring impressive special effects and a richly designed dystopian world that captivates the audience.
- Ambitious Storytelling: Nag Ashwin’s attempt to blend mythology with futuristic elements creates a unique narrative that stands out in Indian cinema.
- Strong Performances: The performances, particularly by Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan, elevate the film, bringing depth to their characters.
- Engaging Action Sequences: The film features well-choreographed action scenes that keep the audience on the edge of their seats, particularly those involving Ashwatthama.
- Cultural References: The incorporation of themes from the Mahabharata adds a layer of richness to the story, appealing to audiences familiar with Indian epics.
Minus Points:
- Weak Screenplay: Despite its ambitious premise, the screenplay suffers from pacing issues and lacks emotional depth, making it hard for viewers to connect with the characters.
- Predictable Plot Points: The film follows several familiar tropes found in sci-fi and action genres, which can make the narrative feel predictable at times.
- Underutilized Characters: Some characters, including Deepika Padukone’s role, feel underdeveloped and do not receive adequate screen time to make a significant impact.
- Inconsistent Tone: The film struggles to maintain a consistent tone, oscillating between serious themes and lighter moments, which can disrupt the overall flow.
- Over-reliance on Visuals: While the visuals are stunning, they sometimes overshadow the narrative, leading to a lack of focus on character development and storytelling.
Technical Aspects:
Kalki 2898 AD excels in its technical execution. The cinematography captures the grandeur of the dystopian world, with vibrant colours and intricate details that enhance the viewing experience. The visual effects team has done an impressive job, of creating a believable futuristic landscape filled with advanced technology and imaginative designs. The production design deserves special mention for its ability to immerse the audience in a richly imagined universe. However, the film’s music score, composed by Santhosh Narayanan, has received mixed reviews. While the background score effectively complements key moments, some critics feel it does not consistently elevate the narrative.
Performance:
The performances in Kalki 2898 AD are a highlight of the film. Amitabh Bachchan delivers a powerful portrayal of Ashwatthama, bringing gravitas and depth to the character. His performance is marked by a sense of urgency and a quest for redemption that resonates throughout the film. Kamal Haasan, as the tyrannical Supreme Yaskin, commands attention with his strong screen presence and nuanced performance. Prabhas, in the role of Bhairava, showcases his charisma and action-hero persona, although his character could have benefited from more development. Deepika Padukone’s role as Sumathi, while significant, feels somewhat limited in scope, leaving audiences wanting more from her performance. The supporting cast, including Keerthy Suresh and Shobana, contribute effectively, though some characters feel underutilized.
Conclusion:
Kalki 2898 AD is an ambitious film that successfully combines elements of mythology and science fiction, creating a visually stunning experience. While it has its share of flaws, including a weak screenplay and predictable plot points, the film’s strengths lie in its visual spectacle, strong performances, and engaging action sequences. Nag Ashwin’s vision for a larger narrative is evident, and the film serves as an intriguing introduction to what could be a compelling franchise. Overall, Kalki 2898 AD is a noteworthy addition to Indian cinema, showcasing the potential for innovative storytelling and grand visual experiences.
Read Also: Maharaja Review