Last week saw the highly-anticipated release of ‘Kalki 2898 AD’, a sci-fi epic that’s been making waves in the cinematic world. Featuring a powerhouse cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, and Deepika Padukone, the film has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews, with fans and critics alike praising the stellar performances and cutting-edge visual effects. Adding to the buzz was the heartwarming experience shared by iconic actor Amitabh Bachchan, who for the first time watched the movie on the big screen with his son, actor Abhishek Bachchan.
Amitabh Bachchan opted to share this special moment in a post on his blog, complete with captivating pictures of their first viewing together. He wrote, “A Sunday of Sundays .. the well-wishers at GOJ and then to Kalki with some friends to see on the big screen .. seeing the film for the first time .. and the experience of an IMAX, and the facilities and environ at the theatre .. so impressive, the elegance and aesthetics in the facility .. had not been out for years .. but so satisfying to be out to witness all the progress.”
His words offered not just a glimpse into his emotions but also highlighted the grandeur of the cinematic experience that IMAX theaters offer. Meanwhile, at around 3:36 AM, Abhishek Bachchan took to social media platform X to succinctly share his own reaction with a simple, “Wow!” accompanied by a mind-blown emoji.
Directed by Nag Ashwin, ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ is a post-apocalyptic tale drawing inspiration from Hindu scriptures and projecting them into a distant future. The story reimagines the Mahabharata through a dystopian lens, injecting new life and intrigue into ancient narratives.
One of the standout elements of the film is its portrayal of Amitabh Bachchan as Ashwatthama, a pivotal figure from the Mahabharata.
. Ashwatthama, the son of Guru Dronacharya, is renowned for his formidable presence and tumultuous life story. Blessed with near invincibility due to a celestial gem at birth, Ashwatthama’s life journey is marked by pivotal moments of allegiance and catastrophic actions. His unwavering loyalty to the Kauravas culminated in an act of revenge that led to the tragic deaths of Draupadi’s sons. Furthermore, his attempt to unleash a Brahmastra upon the unborn child of Abhimanyu invoked the wrath of Krishna, who cursed him with immortality, poverty, and a perpetually festering wound—transforming his existence into an eternal torment.
Understanding Ashwatthama’s rich backstory profoundly enhances the audience’s appreciation of Amitabh Bachchan’s portrayal in the futuristic context of the film.
During a recent promotional event, Amitabh Bachchan shared his initial reaction to the script and his subsequent experiences working on the film. He candidly remarked, “Nagi came and explained the idea of Kalki 2898 AD. After he left, I thought, what the hell is Nagi drinking? To think of something like this is absolutely outrageous. Some of the visuals that you have seen just now are unbelievable. To have somebody conceive a project that is so futuristic is amazing.”
Bachchan’s admiration for director Nag Ashwin was evident as he elaborated on the director’s visionary approach. “No matter what Nag Ashwin thought of, he actually got all the material and effects to match his vision. It has been an amazing experience working for Kalki 2898 AD, which I will never forget,” he added gratefully.
The praise directed towards ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ isn’t restricted to its storyline and special effects. The nuanced performances from the stellar cast have won the hearts of many. Each actor brings a depth and intensity to their roles that elevates the film beyond mere visual spectacle.
The film’s release has ignited discussions about the potential for Indian cinema to push boundaries and explore genres that merge ancient mythology with futuristic narratives. It sets a precedent for future projects aiming to achieve a similar blend of traditional and modern elements.
In conclusion, ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ is not only a cinematic triumph but also a testament to the collaborative efforts of its cast and crew. The emotional relevance it holds for audiences and its daringly novel concept set it apart as a distinctive piece of art. Amitabh Bachchan’s heartfelt recounting of his viewing experience with his son Abhishek adds an evocative layer to the film’s reception, bridging the gap between larger-than-life cinema and personal moments of joy.
