Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD is proving to be a blockbuster. The film ended on a cliffhanger that left audiences eager to watch its sequel.
In a recent conversation, the director of Mahanati said that they have shot for about 25 to 30 days, but there is still a lot more to go. It is almost like starting a completely new production.
Read also: 100 healthy days for NTR?
Responding to criticism about the film’s dull and lethargic first half, Ashwin admitted that there were some issues and areas that could have been better. The first half focuses on Bhairava’s preparation, along with a subplot featuring Disha Patani. Audiences felt that Patani’s role could have been removed, shortening the three-hour film.
Nag Ashwin also admitted that the release was rushed due to extensive visual effects work and multiple language formats.
Read also: Can Vishwak crack Naveen Polishetty’s formula?
When asked about the progress of the sequel, Ashwin mentioned that there is still a lot of action left to reveal. The big scenes are yet to come and need to be done right.
As for the plot, Nag Ashwin explained that all the loose ends from the first film will be wrapped up. The main focus will be the showdown between Yaskin, who can now wield Arjun’s powerful Gandeeva, and Karna and Ashwatthama, the most fearsome warriors.
Read also: Indian 2 Movie Duration: Will Shankar’s gamble pay off?
Ashwin hinted that while Haasan had a limited role in Kalki 2898 AD, the sequel will feature the Tamil superstar prominently. Haasan plays Supreme Yaskin, a despotic ruler of the resource-rich resort, and will be fully showcased as the antagonist.
Ashwin also mentioned that Bhairava is a reincarnation of Karna from the Mahabharata. He felt that Karna’s character was unfinished and needed redemption and a final chapter.
Ashwin revealed that the idea for Kalki 2898 AD came to him a few months after his previous film, Mahanati. He cited his childhood exposure to the Mahabharata and the Star Wars series as influences.
