Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is one of the most-awaited films of the year. Many fans expected the new glimpse of the mega-budget adaptation of one of India’s most recognisable epics would deliver world-class visuals. However, the new glimpse, which introduced Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, has not impressed many on social media. Many users on social media drew a quick comparison with recent historical dramas, like the Ponniyin Selvan films made by Mani Ratnam. (Also read: Ramayana teaser reactions: Reddit hails Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, others say film gives Adipurush 2.0)
‘Not everyone can be Mani Ratnam’
Reacting to the teaser, one social media user commented, “Not everyone is Mani Ratnam.” The user also attached a clip of the filmmaker’s Ponniyin Selvan, which had similar grand sets and beautiful costume designs. The film is set in the historical reign of the Chola dynasty and describes the socio-political setting in the 10th century India. It tells the story of a soldier (Karthi as Vallavaraiyan Vanthiyathevan) who takes on dangerous tasks to save his crown prince and the king. The film starred Aishwarya Rai, Vikram, Jayam Ravi, Sobhita Dhulipala, Prakash Raj, R Parthiban, Aishwarya Lekshmi and Jayaram.
Another user commented, “Glad this movie was shot in real locations, instead of gimmicky, glossy, otherworldly VFX. When the chola heritage is right in front of our eyes (temples, dams) there is no need for VFX.” A comment read, “The reason the PS movies looked visually splendid was that they were mostly shot on location with CGI whenever needed. I do get some movies need more VFX than others, but when you’re making a live action movie, it means a healthy mix of real locations and CGI.”
Several users agreed that the Tamil film had real locations and had breathtaking visuals, shot by Ravi Varman. He also won the National Award for Best Cinematography for his work on the film. “Mani Ratnam chose real locations over VFX & that’s why Ponniyin Selvan will age like fine wine While many films chase scale with CGI, PS builds world through natural light, real landscapes & grounded production design. That authenticity gives timeless life even after 30 years,” wrote a fan.
About Ramayana
Meanwhile, the Ramayana teaser showed Ranbir looking regal as Lord Rama and fighting like a warrior. It also gave a glimpse of Yash’s look as Ravana, and Sai Pallavi as Sita. Producer Namit Malhotra has said that the two films have a combined budget of about ₹4,000 crore, making it the most expensive Indian film production by quite some distance. Adapted by award-winning screenwriter Shridhar Raghavan, Ramayana features music by Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman. Ramayana Part One is set to release worldwide in October 2026, ahead of Diwali.
