INDIA: In the realm of ambitious cinematic ventures, Adipurush, directed by Om Raut, aimed to deliver an epic tale loosely based on the Ramayana. With a star-studded cast including Prabhas, Kriti Sanon, and Saif Ali Khan, the movie held immense promise.
However, as the story unfolded, it became apparent that the director’s intention to explore Ravan’s point of view marred the very essence of the revered epic.
One cannot help but feel a sense of disappointment as Adipurush falls victim to excessive artistic liberties. The director’s attempt to reimagine the Ramayana comes across as a misguided endeavor that strays too far from the original narrative, leaving the audience craving the authenticity and integrity of the ancient tale.
Amidst this disappointing narrative adaptation, the film finds solace in its visual effects and Saif Ali Khan’s commendable acting prowess. The VFX work in Adipurush deserves recognition, showcasing captivating visuals that transport the audience to a world of magic and wonder.
Mixed bag of performances: A closer look at the actors’ portrayals
Saif Ali Khan’s performance as the antagonist offers a glimmer of brilliance in an otherwise lackluster portrayal of the epic characters.
However, the film falters in its casting choices. Prabhas, despite his undeniable talent, fails to embody the essence of Lord Ram and instead resembles his iconic Baahubali character, diluting the impact of his portrayal.
Kriti Sanon’s portrayal of Maa Sita, while adequate, lacks the grace and presence that the character demands. Sunny Singh’s portrayal of Lakshman falls flat, lacking the necessary impact and depth.
Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered characters in the Ramayana, is portrayed in a disappointingly weak manner. The film’s depiction of this powerful and revered deity does a disservice to the strength and importance Hanuman embodies in the original epic.
Adipurush: A flawed cinematic venture
In addition to the flawed character portrayals, Adipurush suffers greatly from its dialogue writing. The lines are not only pathetic but also cringe-worthy, failing to evoke any genuine emotion or depth.
The film’s sound design is equally underwhelming, with an ear-splittingly loud and unimaginative approach that adds to the overall mediocrity of the production.
Adipurush, in its attempt to capture grandeur and scale, ends up feeling like a haphazard amalgamation of Game of Thrones, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, and the Avengers.
While the ambition to create a visually stunning epic is commendable, the execution falls short, resulting in a disjointed mishmash of styles that fails to leave a lasting impression.
Ultimately, the greatest flaw of Adipurush lies in its trivialization of a timeless legend. The film’s three-hour runtime, filled with magic and miracles, fails to offset the consequences of diluting a magnificent tale that has inspired Indian storytelling for centuries.
The film’s misguided adaptation ultimately tarnishes the triumph of good over evil, a theme that has captivated and enthralled audiences since time immemorial.
Adipurush is a cinematic misfire that squanders the opportunity to honor the Ramayana and its enduring legacy. It fails to capture the heart and soul of the epic, delivering a lackluster and disjointed narrative. As audiences, we are left yearning for a faithful retelling of the Ramayana, one that respects the depth and gravitas of this timeless tale.
Transcontinental Times Rating: 1.5/5
Also Read: How Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama Inspired Hollywood
