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Kalki 2898-AD (2024)

2024 • 2h 56m • Fantasy, Drama • PG-13
On September 29, 2026
#2780▼ 38
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All reviews

Rohit Kabdwal on Kalki 2898-AD

· Jul 4, 2024

Within the constantly changing world of Indian movies, "Kalki 2898 AD" appears as a remarkable creation that expands the limits of storytelling and visual artistry. Directed by Nag Ashwin, this innovative project combines elements of ancient mythology and futuristic science fiction, creating a rich narrative that is both thought-provoking and visually impressive. The film takes place in a dystopian future and draws its central story from Hindu mythology, specifically the Mahabharata. It follows Kalki, portrayed by Prabhas, on a journey to restore balance to a world close to collapse. Ashwin’s script skillfully connects the ancient past with a futuristic setting, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and relevant. One of the most remarkable things about the film is its visual presentation. The production design team has created a post-apocalyptic world that seems real and inspiring. From the rough feel of rebel bases to the sleek, oppressive architecture of the antagonist’s headquarters, each scene is visually captivating. The special effects occasionally have inconsistencies, but often reach impressive levels. Scenes depicting futuristic cities and large battles show the film's ambition and the technical abilities within Indian cinema. Santhosh Narayanan's music enhances the visuals perfectly, adding emotional depth and excitement to key moments. The cast of "Kalki 2898 AD" includes many well-known actors from Indian cinema, and they mostly deliver strong performances. Prabhas portrays Kalki with a combination of intensity and vulnerability, although his character’s development feels somewhat uneven throughout the movie. Deepika Padukone is excellent in her role, bringing strength and emotional impact to her character. However, Amitabh Bachchan truly stands out with a powerful performance that grounds the film's more philosophical aspects. Kamal Haasan’s appearance as the antagonist Yaskin is brief but memorable, leaving audiences wanting to see more. While the film’s ambition is admirable, its execution sometimes falls short. The pacing in the first half can feel slow, with some scenes lasting longer than necessary. The story's complexity, while interesting, occasionally becomes confusing, potentially making it difficult for viewers to follow all of the plot threads. The film finds its rhythm in the final act, delivering a series of revelations and action sequences that are truly exciting. The ending not only provides a satisfying resolution but also offers hints of a larger cinematic universe to come. Despite these shortcomings, "Kalki 2898 AD" represents a significant advancement for Indian cinema. Nag Ashwin's vision in blending mythology with science fiction opens up new possibilities for storytelling within the industry. The film’s willingness to explore complex themes and its technical achievements set a new standard for what is achievable in Indian filmmaking. “Kalki 2898 AD” is more than just a movie; it’s an experience. While not flawless, its ambition, visual splendor, and the questions it raises about fate, technology, and the cycle of good versus evil make it worth watching for fans of both Indian cinema and science fiction. As the first part of what promises to be an epic saga, "Kalki 2898 AD" establishes a foundation that leaves audiences eagerly anticipating future installments. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars Bold, ambitious, and visually stunning, “Kalki 2898 AD” signals a new period for Indian cinema, merging mythology and futurism in a way never before seen on screen.

Source on TMDB