Bringing a great story like the Ramayana to the screen is a complex task that requires preserving not only grandeur but also emotional depth, character dignity, and the seriousness of the mythological world. However, in the film 'Ramayana,' featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash, there is a tendency where the creators seem to have moved away from important aspects of the narrative for the sake of flashy CGI and visual effects.
Looking at the faces and appearance of many characters, the excessive use of technology is clearly felt. Some figures look like cartoon characters, and their mannerisms and presence in the frame do not always align with the spirit of the story.
Even the scene of Rama's exile failed to make a strong impression. When Rama is shown crossing the river by boat at night, this key moment of the Ramayana should have conveyed emotional depth, sacrifice, and the beginning of a new life. But the presentation of the scene did not evoke such an emotional response. Instead of focusing on the state of the characters' souls and the pain of exile, this important moment was reduced merely to beautiful visual effects.
The creators missed the connection between Ravana and Mahadeva. In the Ramayana, Ravana is depicted not just as a powerful king and villain, but also as a devoted follower of Mahadeva. His asceticism, devotion to Shiva, and spiritual side give his personality a special depth. This important aspect is insufficiently addressed in the film. Although the figures of Brahma and Vishnu are shown, Ravana's connection to Mahadeva was not presented convincingly. This is regrettable because devotion to Shiva is an integral part of Ravana's character.
CGI technologies are widely used in the film. The attempt to present the divine world, vast sets, and demons looks grand, but the effect is not consistent everywhere. The faces of many characters appear too digital, which makes it difficult to establish an emotional connection with them. It gives the impression that the emphasis was placed on the excessive brightness of the world rather than its realism.
The portrayal of Kumbhakarna, played by Faisal Malik from 'Panchayat,' looks comical rather than imposing. His appearance and scenes in Lanka are often perceived as comedy rather than something serious. Kumbhakarna is a colossal and influential character in the Ramayana whose presence should inspire fear and a sense of power, but here his image weakens the atmosphere even before he has a chance to influence the viewer.
The battles with demons in the forest were also disappointing due to VFX. When Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana fight a demon and a demoness in the forest, the scene does not make a strong impression. The three heroes run through the forest, and an entire army of Asuras is visible behind them. However, there is a lack of realism in this battle scene. The appearance of the demons and the fights themselves look so artificial that the viewer cannot fully immerse themselves in what is happening. Where there should be fear and excitement, there is the falseness of CGI.
