Hrithik Roshan recently weighed in on the online backlash surrounding the visual effects of Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram. While anticipation for the Diwali release is high, social media reactions to the teaser criticized portions of the film’s VFX, with some users comparing it to a “video game.”
Taking to Instagram, Hrithik shared a detailed post reflecting on his experiences with visual effects in cinema and offered a nuanced perspective on how audiences should approach VFX criticism.
Hrithik Roshan on ‘Painful’ VFX
Roshan admitted:
“Yes, bad VFX exists. It’s sometimes so bad it’s painful to watch. Especially for me… and especially when it’s a film I’m part of.”
He then recounted a formative childhood experience, watching Back to the Future at age 11 in London, which sparked his lifelong fascination with visual storytelling. He studied every frame with a VHS player and even bought Industrial Light & Magic: The Art of Special Effects, describing it as one of the happiest days of his life.
Using this anecdote, Hrithik praised filmmakers who take creative risks in large-scale cinematic projects:
“Today some special humans among us, like the makers of films like Kalki, Bahubali, Ramayana… have the guts and vision to do what’s never been done all for the love of cinema, so that another 11-year-old kid can feel what I felt.”
On Different VFX Approaches
Hrithik emphasized that criticism should consider a film’s visual style and narrative goals:
“Bad VFX is if the movie promises photorealism but fails. Or if it aims for a storybook style but isn’t beautiful enough. But to say storybook VFX isn’t photorealistic isn’t fair—it’s not meant to be.”
He concluded by urging audiences to debate thoughtfully:
“Next time don’t just ask, ‘Is it real?’ First ask, ‘Is it right for the story? Is it making me feel what the maker intended?’ Debate with awareness.”
Cast and Release
Directed as a two-part cinematic venture, Ramayana stars:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Ram
- Sai Pallavi as Sita
- Yash as Ravana
- Sunny Deol as Hanuman
- Ravie Dubey as Lakshman
- Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari
- Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha
The first instalment is scheduled for Diwali 2026, with the second part arriving Diwali 2027.
