Movie: Kalki 2898 AD
Director: Nag Ashwin

Cast: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Rajendra Prasad, Disha Patani, Saswata Chatterjee, Brahmanandam, Anna Ben, Shobana, Mrunal Thakur, Dulquer Salmaan, Vijay Deverakonda, and others.

Producer: Aswini Dutt, Priyanka Dutt and Swapna Dutt

Music Director: Santhosh Narayanan
Cinematographer: Djordie Stojilikovic
Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao

Banner: Vyjayanthi Movies
Release Date: June 27, 2024

iQlik Movies Rating: 3/5

Directed by Nag Ashwin and starring Prabhas, Kalki 2898 AD has generated significant anticipation within the Indian film industry. The film features Kamal Haasan, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and others. Check out the film's review here.

Story:
The movie portrays a dystopian future in which the town of Kashi is lifeless and has lost all resources. Shambhala, a sanctuary for interfaith refugees, is ingeniously designed as a complex located a kilometer above the ground and brimming with resources. When Sumathi (Deepika Padukone) who is carrying God in her womb escapes from the clutches of Supreme Yelaski (Kamal Haasan), Bhairava (Prabhas) also becomes an obstacle. What happens in the end? Forms the story of the film.

Performances:
Director Nag Ashwin has meticulously crafted each background and character. Prabhas delivers an outstanding performance, effectively conveying the nuances of his character, Bhairava. His action sequences with Amitabh Bachchan, who plays Ashwatthama, are a highlight.

Amitabh, even at the age of 81, impresses with his dynamic portrayal. Kamal Haasan has limited screen time in the film, and his performance is impressive. Deepika Padukone excels in her role, bringing depth to her character.

Shobhana shines, and Rajendra Prasad delivers a noteworthy performance in a key role. Disha Patani, Pashupati, Anna Ben, and the rest of the cast made their presence felt.

Technical Aspects:
The technical department's work in Kalki 2898 AD is commendable. Santhosh Narayanan's music could not add a powerful layer to the film, and the background score could have been better. Djordje Stoziljkovic's cinematography is exceptional, particularly in key scenes.

Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao's editing is sharp, and Ashwani Dutt's production values are impressive. The writing is good. Technically, the film is grand, but in terms of execution, it could not impress the audiences.

Plus Points:
Performances
Amitabh Bachchan
Technical Aspects
Visuals and VFX

Minus Points:
Second Half Lags
Narration Pace

Review:
While the film boasts a rich storyline, the first half is slow-paced. The primary conflict between the main characters could have been more firmly established. Some incidents appear overly cinematic, and the emotions of the Shambala Rebels could have been portrayed more intensely. Additionally, Bhairava's character could have benefited from more impactful scenes in the first half. The film is a high-octane action and emotional entertainer that combines mythology with a futuristic setting. Although some action scenes feel routine, the film leaves a disappointment in the end.

Final Verdict: Kalki Shines Big With Some Dull Moments