Here is the full review of Kalki 2898 AD directed by Nag Ashwin which stars Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas and Deepika Padukone in lead roles. The film released worldwide today!
Overall rating : 2.5/5
Plot : Based on Hindu scriptures and legends, set in a post-apocalyptic world in the year 2898 AD, the film follows the few selected who are on a mission to save the unborn child, Kalki, of SUM-80, a lab subject. What follows next is the setting up of the Kalki Universe by Nag Ashwin where he has blended Indian mythology with dystopian future.
The much awaited ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ which stars the biggest Indian superstars and promises a blend of outstanding VFX & visuals along with an apt representation of Indian mythology released today and after a prolonged 1st half which mainly sets up the Kalki Universe for it’s successors to follow, the film gathers speed and material in the second half. If you are a fan of watching Indian mythology references, dystopian worlds, breathtaking visuals and especially, Amitabh Bachchan, ‘Kalki 2898 AD is a film which should be on your watchlist.
What We Loved : Amitabh Bachchan as Ashwatthama is the star of the whole film. Right from his 1st scene till the last, he left an unforgettable mark proving that age is just a number for him and his class in permanent. The way he takes center-stage is simply unprecedented of what we’ve seen the megastar do. His dedication and hard-work shows in his intense eyes and we almost believe that he is the Ashwatthama from the Mahabharat. People would love to see him stand tall (pun intended) and his larger-than-life character is the USP of the whole film. Also, the blend of Indian mythology with the dystopian world set in 2898 AD is impressive. Lastly, the climax scene is one of the best parts of the film which elevate the overall experience. You take out the climax or Amitabh from the film and you’ll simply be drowsing.
What We Liked : Kamal Haasan as the ultimate baddie, Supreme Yaskin who possesses the dark aura and is the master of the evil forces in the ‘Complex’ shines in his complex role giving full believability is her portrayal. Also, the brilliant and power-packed cameos by Vijay Deverakonda, SS Rajamouli, Mrunal Thakur, Ram Gopal Verma and an AI generated young Amitabh Bachchan are a treat to watch on the big screen.
What We Didn’t Like : Deepika Padukone is a very strong actor who even brings a lot of strength when she plays vulnerable characters onscreen. In Kalki 2898 AD, she plays SUM-80 aka Sumati who is the chosen one to be the mother to the unborn child, Kalki who is believed to take birth to bring in the change in the world and save the people from the evil. Sadly, her character does nothing except for crying and asking self-help questions. A terrific actor like Padukone who shone last in ‘Jawan’ has been wasted in the film’s narrative. Other than her star-power, Deepika sadly brings nothing. Also, the first-half is dragged and gets completely dedicated to setting up the Universe of Kalki which is important but doesn’t do anything extra-ordinary.
The Director’s Hat : Nag Ashwin who is known to produce blockbuster after blockbuster has given a lot to this project. Kalki 2898 Ad has been in the making in years and got delayed due to Covid. His research and detailing get full marks whether it be when he shows the mythological characters from ‘The Mahabharat’ or when he builds the Kalki Universe with such detailing. The problem is in the overall execution where despite getting all the best ingredients ready, he undercooks the final dish. Though Kalki 2898 AD’s climax gives what it should give, ie, the urge to watch the sequel soon but we all know it will take years and by the time, it releases, we will forget the film.
Conclusion : Kalki 2898 AD shows a promise, a lot of scale and world-class VFX & visuals but despite all the pluses, it is mostly a one-time watch. Amitabh Bachchan fans must not miss this film.
