Kalki 2898 AD: A Dystopian Epic Unfolds
A Tale of Ambition, Rebellion, and Destiny in Earth’s Final City
On Thursday, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, and Amitabh Bachchan’s much-anticipated film, *Kalki 2898 AD*, directed by Nag Ashwin, premiered in theaters. Let’s delve into its captivating plot.
In the dystopian city of Kashi, the last city on Earth, Supreme Yaskin (Kamal Haasan) envisions a new world. To realize this vision, he establishes a reproductive lab, seeking the ideal woman for his grand experiment. After numerous trials, he selects Sumathi (Deepika Padukone) as the perfect candidate. Meanwhile, Bhairava (Prabhas), a ruthless bounty hunter, yearns to gain entry into Complex, Yaskin’s domain, for a chance at a better life. Concurrently, the enigmatic Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan) embarks on a mission to rescue Sumathi from Yaskin’s control. A fierce battle ensues between Bhairava and Ashwatthama, driven by the bounty on Sumathi.
The film’s plot raises compelling questions that keep viewers engaged, especially in the action-packed second half. The Mahabharata-inspired sequences, particularly the climax and suspenseful conclusion, are masterfully executed. Santhosh Narayanan’s background score further elevates these moments, leaving a lasting impression.
However, the movie’s first half is slow and can be challenging to follow, even though the second half is more engaging. The film’s length could have been trimmed by cutting scenes that do not contribute to the narrative. Prabhas and Disha Patani’s roles lack depth, and the song from Complex feels unnecessary. Some potentially thrilling scenes before the intermission are underutilized. The emotional impact of Shambala and its mission could have been enhanced with more depth in the second half. A closer bond between Bujji and Prabhas in the first half might have improved the overall experience.
Despite its flaws, *Kalki 2898 AD* offers a justified and thrilling cinematic experience, especially in its climactic moments. While the first half’s slow pace may test viewers’ patience, the film ultimately delivers a remarkable story.
