Movie Review: “Kalki 2898 AD”

Director: Nag Ashwin
Starring: Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan
Genre: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Action
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

"Kalki 2898 AD" emerges as a grand, ambitious spectacle set against the backdrop of a dystopian future intertwined with Hindu mythology. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the film attempts to build a vast cinematic universe with mixed results, relying heavily on its visual prowess and star-studded cast.

The narrative unfolds in the year 2898 AD, where the prophesied tenth avatar of Lord Vishnu, Kalki, is awaited to bring about a new era. The story kicks off with an intriguing premise rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly around the cursed Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan) and his immortal existence. This serves as a compelling foundation but occasionally gets lost amidst a cluttered plot filled with numerous characters and subplots.

Visually, "Kalki 2898 AD" excels, thanks to the stunning production design by Nitin Zihani Choudhary and cinematography by Djordje Stojiljkovic, which transport viewers into the dark, technologically advanced cityscape of Kasi and the mysterious Complex. The world-building is immersive, capturing the essence of a future where oppression and rebellion collide.

Prabhas leads the cast as Bhairava, the central hero striving against evil forces alongside a diverse ensemble including Deepika Padukone as SUM80 and Kamal Haasan as God King Supreme Yaskin. While Prabhas delivers a charismatic performance, his character is overshadowed by Amitabh Bachchan's commanding presence and Deepika Padukone's restrained portrayal.

The film's first half struggles with pacing issues and unnecessary diversions, particularly with attempts at humor and romantic subplots that detract from the main narrative thrust. However, the second half gains momentum with Bachchan's re-entry, injecting energy into the proceedings with intense action sequences and palpable charisma.

Supporting performances from veterans like Kamal Haasan and newcomers like Shobhana add depth to the narrative, though some characters, such as Saswata Chatterjee's Commander Manas, come across as overly caricatured.

Music by Santhosh Narayanan, while not remarkable in the songs, effectively complements the film's dramatic moments with a fitting background score.

Overall, "Kalki 2898 AD" stands out as a visually stunning cinematic experience that immerses viewers in its elaborate universe. Despite its narrative flaws and pacing issues, the film offers an imaginative journey into a future where myth and technology converge. It's a film that demands patience but rewards with glimpses of brilliance, especially in its visual and conceptual design.

If you're drawn to epic battles and mythological narratives intertwined with futuristic elements, "Kalki 2898 AD" promises a unique audio-visual experience that leaves a lasting impression, despite its narrative complexities.

Verdict: A visually striking sci-fi epic that blends Hindu mythology with futuristic dystopia, featuring standout performances from Amitabh Bachchan and a visually immersive world. While flawed in narrative execution, it offers an engaging spectacle for fans of ambitious cinematic universes.