by Kalki 2898 AD Review: At first glance, it might seem unusual for a sci-fi film to incorporate genuine supernatural elements. This likely arises from the traditional genre boundaries: fantasy and horror often feature supernatural aspects, while science fiction typically adheres to natural laws and technological advancements. However, Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, seamlessly merges these two realms. The film presents a compelling narrative that integrates mythological themes with sci-fi concepts, creating a unique and cohesive world. The use of science fiction to explore the implications of reincarnating deities and historical epochs results in a distinct and imaginative setting.
Kalki 2898 AD is rife with grand ideas, clearly aiming to expand into a broader universe of stories. This approach is reminiscent of modern Hollywood’s tendency to build franchises and multi-part sagas. It’s refreshing to see an international film draw from significant world religions and folklore to create original, high-stakes worldbuilding. While some aspects of this ambitious project are exceptionally well-executed, others occasionally fall short. The film features strong performances and a rich narrative, though certain characters are either underdeveloped or side-tracked. Nonetheless, Kalki 2898 AD offers an engaging experience with a blend of grand concepts and robust character development.
Kalki 2898 AD
Action | Adventure | Drama
In a dystopian future teetering on the edge of collapse, corrupt rulers exploit technology and religion to maintain control. A mysterious figure emerges, believed to be the prophesied warrior destined to topple the tyrants and restore balance. As he amasses followers, his quest becomes a beacon of hope for the oppressed, challenging the corrupt regime’s very foundation.
Director: Nag Ashwin
Writers: Nag Ashwin
Budget: $75 Million
Studio(s): Vyjayanthi Movies
What Is Kalki 2898 AD About?
Set in a distant, dystopian future during the Kali Yuga, the most perilous of the world’s ages, Kalki 2898 AD follows the aftermath of the Mahābhārata. Krishna’s curse on the warrior Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan) ensures immortality and the protection of Kalki, the future avatar of Vishnu. The last surviving city, Kasi, is plagued by poverty and tyranny under the rule of Supreme Yaskin (Kamal Haasan), who experiments on women in search of a viable pregnancy. The rebel community of Shambala opposes Yaskin’s regime, seeking liberation.
Bhairava (Prabhas), a skilled bounty hunter, and his robotic companion, Bujii, become entangled in the conflict when Sumati (Deepika Padukone), who survives Yaskin’s experiments, escapes. Sumati is destined to bear Kalki, awakening Ashwatthama’s dormant power. Bhairava, initially seeking to gain favor with Yaskin, gradually aligns with Ashwatthama and Sumati against the tyrant’s forces as he discovers his own heroic potential.
Kalki 2898 AD Is an Engaging, High-Concept Sci-Fi Epic
Creating a film based on ancient spiritual texts like the Mahābhārata presents significant challenges. As the longest epic poem ever written, it poses questions about which battles and eras to portray. Kalki 2898 AD excels in handling these challenges by setting its story in a futuristic context, allowing for inventive supernatural elements within a sci-fi framework. This blend results in intriguing worldbuilding and memorable scenes, such as Bhairava’s battle with a demigod in a makeshift mech suit. The film’s approach to mythological characters is refreshing and innovative, marking a notable entry in the international film landscape.
Despite some narrative missteps, Kalki 2898 AD excels in its worldbuilding.
As the most expensive film produced in India to date, Kalki 2898 AD ambitiously aims to set the stage for future projects. The expansive lore, striking visuals, and grand battle sequences contribute to its appeal. The film effectively combines fantasy and sci-fi elements, offering a unique viewing experience. However, some narrative elements could benefit from tighter editing and clearer setup. The revelation of Bhairava’s heroic nature, for instance, might seem abrupt without sufficient buildup. Despite these issues, Kalki 2898 AD remains a compelling epic with a distinct genre fusion, strong performances, and an engaging story. It represents a promising new entry into the epic genre, showing potential for future installments.
