Amitabh Bachchan has recently expressed his admiration for the upcoming Telugu dystopian sci-fi film Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin. The film, which features Bachchan in the role of the immortal Ashwatthama, has garnered attention not only for its ambitious narrative but also for its length and certain crowd-pleasing elements, particularly those involving the lead actor Prabhas.
In a recent episode of The Kalki Chronicles, shared on the official YouTube channel of Vyjayanthi Movies, Amitabh Bachchan passionately defended Prabhas’ introductory scenes in the film. He highlighted the importance of these moments, emphasizing that they play a significant role in establishing Prabhas as a cultural icon within the Telugu-speaking community.
Bachchan remarked, “There are many portions, which I felt as somebody who’s been in the film industry can understand, that you’re playing to the gallery. This is Prabhas, this is a Telugu film. And Prabhas is Telugu. You’ve to understand that he’s massive, he’s God-like.” He further elaborated that while some viewers might have felt the film’s length was excessive, the introductory scenes are essential for setting up the character of Prabhas, who is not just a hero in the film but a hero for the Telugu-speaking nation.
Despite mixed reviews regarding the film’s pacing, Bachchan believes that Kalki 2898 AD represents a perfect blend of entertainment and storytelling. He stated, “We have to give it to them,” acknowledging the effort put into crafting a narrative that resonates with audiences.
Director Nag Ashwin also weighed in on the discussions surrounding Prabhas’ introduction. He explained that the film walks a fine line between catering to local audiences and appealing to international viewers. Ashwin noted that certain elements, such as the hologram that briefly refers to Prabhas as the ‘Rebel Star,’ might not resonate with those unfamiliar with the regional context. He acknowledged that while these moments serve as nods to the local audience, they may appear as mere fan service to outsiders.
In the conversation, Ashwin mentioned a specific scene where Prabhas’ character, Bhairava, acknowledges his fanbase, pointing out that such references might not hold the same weight for viewers who are not part of the cultural milieu. He remarked, “It’s a very thin line,” suggesting that the film aims to balance local flavor with universal appeal.
Kalki 2898 AD features an impressive cast, including Deepika Padukone, and is set against a backdrop of a dystopian future. The film’s ambitious premise and visual storytelling have already generated significant buzz in the lead-up to its release.
The film’s production house, Vyjayanthi Movies, has been actively promoting Kalki 2898 AD, and the anticipation surrounding the film continues to grow as fans eagerly await its debut. With Amitabh Bachchan’s endorsement and Prabhas’ star power, the film is expected to make a substantial impact upon its release.
As the release date approaches, discussions about the film’s themes, character arcs, and cinematic techniques are likely to intensify, drawing both fans of the genre and those curious about the evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
With a blend of action, drama, and science fiction, Kalki 2898 AD promises to be a unique addition to the film industry, showcasing the talents of its cast and crew while pushing the boundaries of storytelling in Indian cinema.
