In the cinematic depiction of Ram Setu, the storyline mirrors that of a toothpaste advertisement, where actors dressed in white coats assure viewers of its benefits as if they were dentists endorsing a particular brand. The film employs a persuasion tactic similar to a “doctor’s recommendation,” aiming to convince audiences of the scientific validity and historical significance of Ram Setu, rather than relegating it to mere mythology.
Movie Ratings
| Release Date | 25 October 2022 |
| Language | Hindi |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Drama, Thriller |
| Duration | 2h 22min |
| Cast | Akshay Kumar, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nushrratt Bharuccha, Satyadev Kancharana |
| Director | Abhishek Sharma |
| Writer | Abhishek Sharma |
| Cinematography | Aseem Mishra |
| Producer | Aruna Bhatia, Vikram Malhotra, Subaskaran, Mahaveer Jain, Aashish Singh |
| Production | Cape of Good Films, Abundantia Entertainment, Amazon Prime Video, Lyca Productions |
| Certificate | 16+ |
The narrative brings together characters portraying scientists, environmentalists, and archaeology experts, all with the singular objective of affirming and promoting the legacy of Lord Rama and Ram Setu as historical truths rather than mythical tales. Despite their allegiance to science over tradition, the director emphasizes that these characters are unbiased individuals, devoid of blind devotion.
Leading the pack of skeptics-turned-believers is Dr. Aaryan, played by a middle-aged Akshay Kumar with a modern name. Styled akin to an aging Brad Pitt in a disheveled manner, Aaryan is a respected archaeologist renowned for his excavations in Afghanistan. He symbolically returns an ancient treasure to Afghanistan, underscoring unity amidst neighboring nations against common threats like the Taliban. Aaryan repeatedly asserts his reliance on facts and historical evidence, distancing himself from religious beliefs.
However, despite his skepticism, Aaryan is handpicked for a controversial expedition by a nefarious corporate entity led by the talented South Indian actor, Nassar. The corporation aims to demolish Ram Setu for commercial interests but requires evidence proving it as a natural formation rather than a man-made structure attributed to Lord Rama. Assuming Aaryan’s atheistic stance will serve their agenda, they enlist him for the task, only to be surprised by his eventual findings.
The film’s narrative presents a lopsided discourse on mythology versus history, with its conclusion apparent from the outset. The storyline lacks the thrill of discovery, unfolding more like a poorly scripted reality television show with a transparent agenda. Despite attempts to infuse drama, the plot feels contrived, with characters stumbling upon ancient relics and hidden caves with implausible ease.
Additionally, the introduction of a rudimentary underwater suit akin to a budget Iron Man suit fails to evoke intrigue or wonder. The climax, set within a courtroom, sees Aaryan advocating for the preservation of cultural heritage over unbridled progress. In its endeavor to blur the lines between mythology and history, the film inadvertently diminishes the sanctity of Lord Rama’s legacy and faith in general.
Overall, “Ram Setu” lacks the spark and subtlety needed to engage audiences, instead coming across as preachy and contrived. Lord Rama’s legacy, it suggests, requires no salesmanship or cinematic endorsements to uphold its significance.
