Kalki 2898 AD Review : Big B and Kamal Haasan Show…..

7 min readJun 29, 2024

After watching this movie, I couldn’t help but think that directors like Vikas Bahl (Ganapath) and Om Raut (Adipurush) should take a masterclass from Nag Ashwin. Their movies were jokes we wish to forget, especially the misuse of Amitabh in dystopian settings and Prabhas in ‘Adipurush’. Ashwin’s handling of such themes shows how it’s done, putting those previous attempts to shame.

Okay, now getting back to the review…

Plot

“Kalki 2898 AD,” directed by Nag Ashwin, transports us to a dystopian future where darkness and tyranny prevail. The protagonist, Bhairava, played by Prabhas, is a seasoned bounty hunter dreaming of a better life in the Complex. His quest for comfort entangles him with rebels fighting to free humanity from oppressive forces. The plot is richly layered, skillfully blending elements of ancient mythology with futuristic sci-fi. The story’s progression is smooth, though some might find the first half a bit slow as it sets the stage for the explosive second half.

Attraction

The film’s unique blend of mythology and science fiction sets it apart, creating a captivating and fresh cinematic experience. It entertains with high-stakes action, emotional depth, and a richly detailed world that feels new and familiar — the film’s ability to merge these elements seamlessly results in a compelling and engaging spectacle. However, the film’s length might be a drawback for some viewers, as certain scenes could have been trimmed for a tighter narrative.

Theme

“Kalki 2898 AD” delves into identity, resistance, and destiny themes. Bhairava’s journey from a self-serving hunter to a reluctant hero is compelling. The film explores the eternal struggle between good and evil, questioning whether individuals can change their fate or are bound by it. The resistance against oppressive forces and the quest for freedom resonate deeply, adding meaning to the narrative. These themes are explored with depth and nuance, making the film a visual spectacle and a narrative rich in philosophical inquiry.

Acting

The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, each actor bringing their character to life with authenticity and vigor. Amitabh Bachchan, as Ashwatthama, commands every scene he’s in, exuding a presence that is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. As Supreme Yaskin, Kamal Haasan adds a layer of gravitas to the film. Prabhas, in the role of Bhairava, showcases a range of emotions, growing into his role as the film progresses. Despite her limited screen time, Deepika Padukone brings grace and emotional weight to her character. The supporting cast, including industry veterans and newcomers, complements the main leads, making the film a well-rounded ensemble. However, some characters, like Disha Patani’s Roxie, feel underdeveloped and fail to leave a lasting impact.

Dialogue

The dialogues in “Kalki 2898 AD” are sharp and purposeful, effectively conveying the gravity of the situation while providing moments of fun and introspection. The screenplay ensures that every line serves a purpose, whether advancing the plot, revealing character motivations, or enhancing the thematic depth. The blend of mythological and futuristic elements is handled well, though some lines might feel clichéd or overly dramatic.

Cinematography

Visually, “Kalki 2898 AD” is a masterpiece. The cinematography captures the dystopian world’s bleakness while highlighting moments of beauty and hope. The lighting creates a stark contrast between the oppressive darkness and the glimmers of light, symbolizing resistance and hope. The settings blend futuristic architecture with elements inspired by ancient Indian aesthetics. The detailed costumes reflect the characters’ roles and enhance the film’s overall visual appeal. Some visual effects, particularly the de-aged face of Amitabh Bachchan, could have been more polished, slightly disrupting the immersion.

Editing

The editing of “Kalki 2898 AD” is crucial in maintaining the film’s pace and coherence. The first half focuses on world-building and character introductions, setting a solid foundation for the action-packed second half. The transitions between scenes are smooth, ensuring the narrative flow is uninterrupted. While the visual effects are generally impressive, there are a few moments where they could have been refined further.

Soundtrack

Santhosh Narayanan’s soundtrack is both haunting and exhilarating, enhancing the emotional impact of the scenes. The score complements the film’s tone, from quiet moments of introspection to grand, action-packed sequences. The sound design is meticulously crafted, adding to the realism of the dystopian setting. However, some background scores might feel repetitive or too overwhelming during certain scenes.

Directing

Nag Ashwin’s direction is visionary, bringing a complex and ambitious narrative to life with finesse. His ability to balance multiple storylines and themes while maintaining a coherent and engaging narrative is commendable. Ashwin’s vision for “Kalki 2898 AD” is evident in every frame, from the grand set pieces to the intimate character moments. His execution of the film’s themes and visual style is bold and nuanced, though some scenes might feel overly indulgent or drawn out.

The “It” Factor

Its unique blend of mythology and science fiction sets “Kalki 2898 AD” apart. The film transcends traditional genre boundaries, creating a distinctive cinematic experience. It showcases the potential of Indian cinema to explore new frontiers and push creative boundaries. Despite its flaws, the film’s ambitious scope and meticulous attention to detail make it a memorable piece of art.

End Note

After watching “Kalki 2898 AD,” I was impressed by its grandeur and ambition. For an Indian movie, it marks a significant achievement in the South Indian film industry. The fresh mix of sci-fi and Mahabharata elements is innovative and engaging. The movie’s second half truly delivers, overshadowing the slower first half. Legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan showcase their veteran status, elevating the film.

While there were occasional weak shots and dialogues, the film’s second half overshadowed these minor flaws. The surprise appearances by various cast members added an element of excitement and delight. “Kalki 2898 AD” is a star-studded film that has successfully brought Prabhas back into the limelight.

Despite having seen similar themes in various forms of media, this movie stands out with its excellent attention to detail. It portrays all walks of life and society. It captures individuals’ emotions and struggles, making it a relatable and inspiring watch. The cinematography is award-worthy, and the film, as a whole, serves as a significant milestone in Indian cinema.

Rating : 6.9/10