Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Review

“Kalki 2898 AD” marks an ambitious venture by Telugu cinema filmmaker Nag Ashwin, merging a century’s worth of sci-fi and fantasy influences into a single, grand narrative. Drawing from diverse sources ranging from Fritz Lang’s “Metropolis” to the vast Marvel Comics universe, the film also incorporates elements from the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. Billed as the first chapter of the Kalki Cinematic Universe, it coincidentally launched the same weekend as Kevin Costner’s multi-film “Horizon” saga in the U.S.

Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Review

Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Plot Summary:

The film opens with a grand CGI-enhanced sequence, illustrating the curse placed upon the warrior Ashwatthama by Lord Krishna after the Kurukshetra War, a pivotal event in the Mahabharata. Ashwatthama is doomed to eternal life but given a chance at redemption by assisting in the birth of Kalki, the tenth and final avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu.

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Fast forward to the year 2898 AD, where the story shifts to Kasi, a dystopian slum depicted as the last viable city on Earth. High above Kasi’s suffering masses lies the Complex, a gigantic inverted pyramid reminiscent of the elite structures in “Metropolis.” Here, Supreme Yaskin (played by Kamal Haasan) and the elite indulge in luxury, including a personal ocean, while the lower classes toil below.

Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Cast:

Bhairava (Prabhas): A bounty hunter with a tricked-out vehicle and a robotic co-pilot, Bhairava dreams of escaping his debts and entering the luxurious Complex.
SUM-80 / Sumati (Deepika Padukone): An escapee from a gruesome lab where pregnant women are exploited for their fluids to extend Yaskin’s life. Sumati becomes a symbol of rebellion and is protected by Ashwatthama.
Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan): Now an ancient, superhuman sage, Ashwatthama plays a key role in protecting Sumati and guiding her towards fulfilling her destiny.
Commander Manas (Saswata Chatterjee): The loyal and intimidating commander who relentlessly pursues Sumati on Yaskin’s orders.

Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Production and Direction:

Nag Ashwin’s direction showcases a blend of visual and narrative elements from popular sci-fi and fantasy franchises such as “Dune,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Star Wars,” “Black Panther,” “Blade Runner,” and “Mad Max.” The film’s world-building is extensive, with intricate details that are sometimes overshadowed by the sprawling narrative. The parallel plotlines take their time to intersect, causing occasional pacing issues.

Visual Effects and Cinematography:

The film’s action sequences are a visual treat, laden with CGI that brings to life futuristic landscapes, epic battles, and high-tech gadgets. Cinematographer Dani Sanchez-Lopez and VFX teams have created an immersive experience that stands out, especially in the elaborate settings of the Complex and the dystopian earth below.

Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Cast Performances:

Prabhas delivers a compelling performance as Bhairava, balancing charm and roguish determination. Deepika Padukone’s portrayal of Sumati is both vulnerable and fierce, while Amitabh Bachchan’s Ashwatthama exudes wisdom and power. Kamal Haasan, as the villainous Yaskin, is both menacing and captivating.

Reception:

“Kalki 2898 AD” has received mixed reviews, with praise for its visual spectacle and ambitious scope, but criticism for its convoluted storyline and pacing. The film’s ability to justify future sequels remains uncertain, hinging on box office performance and audience reception.

Where to Watch:

Currently running in the Theatre.

Kalki 2898 AD Telugu Movie Rating:

Rating: 3.5/5

FAQs: (Frequently asked Questions)

What is “Kalki 2898 AD” about?
“Kalki 2898 AD” is a sci-fi and fantasy film set in a dystopian future, drawing elements from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. It follows the journey of Bhairava and Sumati as they navigate a world dominated by a tyrannical ruler and seek to fulfill an ancient prophecy.
Who directed “Kalki 2898 AD”?
The film is directed by Nag Ashwin.
What are the main influences of the film?
The film draws inspiration from various sci-fi and fantasy sources, including “Metropolis,” “Dune,” “Star Wars,” “Blade Runner,” and the Mahabharata.
Who are the lead actors in the film?
The lead roles are played by Prabhas (Bhairava), Deepika Padukone (Sumati), Amitabh Bachchan (Ashwatthama), and Kamal Haasan (Supreme Yaskin).
What is the significance of Ashwatthama in the story?
Ashwatthama is a cursed warrior from the Mahabharata, given a chance at redemption by assisting in the birth of Kalki, the final avatar of Vishnu. In the film, he protects Sumati and guides her towards fulfilling her destiny.
What is the Complex in “Kalki 2898 AD”?
The Complex is a massive inverted pyramid where the elite live in luxury, ruling over the oppressed masses of the dystopian city Kasi.
Is “Kalki 2898 AD” part of a larger series?
Yes, it is intended to be the first chapter of the Kalki Cinematic Universe, with potential sequels depending on its success.
What is the role of CGI in the film?
CGI plays a significant role in creating the film’s futuristic landscapes, epic battles, and high-tech gadgets, contributing to its visual spectacle.
What makes “Kalki 2898 AD” unique?
Its blend of Indian mythology with modern sci-fi and fantasy elements, combined with high production values, sets it apart from typical genre films.