Kalki 2898-AD

"I have to admit that it was hard for me to review this movie. I don't know much of the rich background of Indian culture and history, so I am not sure how to describe this film. All I can say is that the story was basically about how good needs to re-enter the world in the form of a reincarnated God who unfairly lost the battle between good and evil. Good needs to be reborn into a world where women are not allowed to give birth and start families for fear they will be taken from them for some grander unknown sinister purpose. At least that's what I believe the plot to be in my small understanding. (Please correct me in the comments if I am misrepresenting the plot in any way. I do not want to disrespect anyone's beliefs, and I will gladly change my review if needed.) Either way, the story of not being able to be free to have a family and be happy.l is certainly something anyone can relate to. I absolutely adore Deepika, and although her performance was somewhat understated, she never disappointed. I admire Amitabh Bachchan, and his regalness was in true form in the role he played. The entire movie was beautiful and incredible to look at, even the dystopian world that was fleshed out was also amazing to see. I felt as if I had been transported into that world. The battle between good and evil always makes for a good plot."

"Although this movie is full of stunning visuals, most of it didn't come across well and a lot got lost in translation. This Bollywood sci-fi movie is kind of a Hindu version of Dune. It's an epic adventure that's way too long at around 3 hours. Most of the attempts at comic relief just fall flat, but there are unintentional funny parts. Some of the laser rifles looked like they were made of Styrofoam, but there is still a lot to appreciate in this film. The second half is better than the first, as there is a ton of over the top action. I liked the mix of old world Indian history mashed up with a futuristic sci-fi vision. The acting, soundtrack, and story were lacking but visually there is a massive amount to enjoy. 6.5/10"

"If you’re a super sci-fi/fantasy geek, the next time you have 3 hours (sheesh), check this out. Standard “The One” story, with the rebel uprising and all, only this time it’s God. No messianic symbolism here. She’s pregnant with God. And no one does grandeur and spectacle like the Indians. Just amazing world building, super cool weapons and transport, amazing action scenes and superduperheroes to root for. Part of a franchise and I guess there’s a prequel series I now gotta go find. As with a lot of Indian action films, it’s intense sensory overload with the music, art direction, dance numbers. It can be overwhelming. But if it’s your jam, this is perfect. Only bummer is probably four or more years for part 2. "

"4.5 stars. I really liked this movie once I got past the 1st 30 minutes or so. That part was okay, but after that everything picked up. The story was good, the visuals were excellent, and the actress playing the mother was especially great. Her facial expressions were everything. I love when they have movies where you're introduced to characters who you know will cross paths. So you sit back and wait with baited breath to see how it happens."

"Despite its imperfections, this was actually a solid film overall, and a great experience watching it in the theaters. This is an exploration of the Hindu mythological tale of the upcoming avatar of Lord Vishnu named Kalki. Having personally grown up listening to these stories, I was especially impressed by how mythology and sci-fi elements were combined here, effectively setting the foundation for a cinematic universe exploring this tale (despite a slow first half where the comedic parts dragged the film a bit, the story really gained momentum in the second half, ending on one incredible cliffhanger, and I cannot wait to see how the future films unfold). The production design in particular was easily the MVP of the film, reminiscent of MAD MAX and even BLADE RUNNER 2049 to an extent (this is the most expensive Indian film ever made, and you can clearly see where that budget went). Stellar cinematography and costumes as well. Amitabh Bachchan was easily the MVP as Ashwatthama (a character in the Indian epic Mahabharat), with strong performances from Prabhas, Deepika Padukone among others as well. Really fun cameos too (RRR director S. S. Rajamouli’s in particular was hilarious). This is a movie that deserves to be watched in theatres. Highly recommended."

"Exciting and groundbreaking but somewhat repetitive and disoriented "