Ramayana: first reactions split on Rs 4,000 crore epic

The Los Angeles screening of Ramayana: The Rise of a Legend on October 27 has turned the film into the week’s biggest talking point. The first reactions are in, and they are neither a unanimous rave nor a rejection. They land somewhere more useful for fans: a picture of what works and what may divide the audience when the film opens. With the release close, the early word will be tested quickly.

Early reactions: strong leads, grand scale

Much of the early praise centres on the central performances. Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Rama is being described as pure and emotionally direct, while Yash’s Ravana is drawing attention for sheer screen presence. Sai Pallavi’s Sita also features in the early conversation, though the strongest reactions so far belong to Rama and Ravana.

Several viewers called the film a grand spectacle. The visuals, dance sequences, music and action were described in glowing terms, and at least one early viewer said the film left Western audiences emotional. Director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra attended the screening with the cast in traditional attire, adding to the event’s buzz.

Where the first reactions divide

Not every reaction was positive. A section of viewers felt the musical score did not carry the divine weight the story needs. Others pointed to pacing issues in the second half, and a few mentioned that some scenes felt staged rather than lived-in, with one reviewer referring to “cartoonish asuras.” The green-screen look in a handful of shots was also flagged, despite the film’s visible scale.

This matters for a mythological epic. A film like this depends on devotion, music and emotional conviction as much as on VFX. When the score or pacing wobbles, it can pull viewers out of the experience even if the performances are strong.

The Rs 4,000 crore question

The stakes are unusually high. The two-part project is reported to have been made on a budget of around Rs 4,000 crore, making it one of the most ambitious Indian film ventures in terms of scale and investment. The first instalment is expected to set up the larger story that continues in the sequel.

Here is what fans can take from the early reactions:

• Standout elements: Ranbir Kapoor’s Rama and Yash’s Ravana are the most praised.
• The spectacle: Many viewers loved the visuals, action and emotional moments.
• The caveat: Music, second-half pacing and some VFX shots are the common points of criticism.

The early social and Letterboxd reactions are a temperature check, not a full review. The real test is whether word of mouth turns this split buzz into a strong opening. For now, the conversation has begun, and expectations are running high for what could become one of Indian cinema’s biggest releases.

Source: The Siasat Daily