The Indian sci-fi epic Kalki 2989 AD will have its world premiere simultaneously on Prime Video and Netflix, albeit in different languages. The film is the biggest Indian film hit of the year with a gross of $131 million.
Kalki 2898 AD will premiere in the original Telugu language, with dubbing available in Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam, along with English subtitles, on Prime Video from August 22. A Hindi dubbed version will premiere on Netflix on the same day.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world in the year 2898 AD where nature has vanished and darkness has reigned, Kalki 2989 AD marks the first installment in the Kalki Cinematic Universe. The film follows the journey of Bhairava, a bounty hunter, as he navigates this dystopian future. The world of the film was previously introduced through a two-part animated series, B&B: Bujji & Bhairava, available exclusively on Prime Video.
Directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, Kalki 2989 AD features an ensemble cast including Prabhas, who plays Bhairava, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani.
“Kalki 2898 AD has successfully captured the attention of audiences with its immersive storytelling and visionary depiction of a post-apocalyptic future,” said Manish Menghani, Director, Content Licensing, Prime Video India.
“Working on Kalki 2898 AD with a visionary director like Naga and an exceptional cast has been truly exciting. The film not only pushes the boundaries of storytelling with its blend of mythology and futuristic elements, but also delves into the complexities of human nature,” Prabhas added.
Producer C Aswani Dutt noted that releasing the film online on Prime Video is a special way for Vyjayanthi Movies to celebrate its 50th year in the industry.
“With Kalki 2898 AD, I have been keen to create a cinematic experience that opens new horizons, transcends traditional boundaries and shares our cultural mythology on a global scale,” Ashwin said.
Kamal Haasan, who plays the antagonist Supreme Yaskin in the film, described his involvement as “memorable and humbling”, adding: “The film represents a huge leap forward for Indian cinema.”