Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama Movie Review – A Timeless Anime Classic that Erases the Memory of Adipurush and Ram Setu

Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is an iconic anime that brings the revered Indian epic to life in an exceptional way. Initially released in the 1990s and now re-released in stunning HD 4K with fresh Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu dubs, this movie offers a timeless viewing experience that makes it a standout adaptation of the Ramayana.

A Fresh Take on the Epic – Animation’s Advantage

One of the major advantages of animation, especially in adapting an epic like the Ramayana, is the freedom it offers. It avoids the difficult task of matching real-life actors to their larger-than-life counterparts from the ancient text. Yugo Sako, the creator, wisely chose the animated genre for this very reason. The animation quality is top-notch, with vivid and captivating visuals that remain true to the essence of the Ramayana. Although some characters might appear a bit paler than one might expect, the animation stands strong as the film’s visual highlight.

The Story: Faithful to the Epic

The narrative of Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is familiar yet captivating. It follows the timeless journey of Lord Ram (voiced by Yudhvir Dahiya), the prince of Ayodhya, and his exile (Vanvaas), accompanied by Sita (Sonal Kaushal) and Lakshman (Uplaksh Koccher). The film delves into key events of the Ramayana, including the humiliation of Surpanakha, Sita’s abduction by Ravana (Rajesh Jolly), the discovery of Sita’s location by Hanuman (Archit Maurya), the building of Ram Setu, the battle of Ram’s army, and his triumphant return to Ayodhya.

The backstory of this film’s release is also interesting, as it became controversial during the time of the Rath Yatra and protests by VHP against non-Indians adapting this iconic Indian epic. For more about the history and backstory, you can read Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama to be screened at Maha Kumbh Mela.

The Nostalgia Factor – Why the Re-Release Matters

For many, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama holds a special place in their hearts, thanks to its original release on Doordarshan and its availability on YouTube. The re-release in cinemas, complete with a 4K remaster and newly dubbed versions, adds a fresh layer to the experience. The nostalgia of reliving this animated masterpiece on the big screen is undeniable, and it is a great way for new generations to experience the grandeur of the Ramayana.

While the older Hindi dubbed version had Bollywood legends like Arun Govil as Lord Ram, Amrish Puri as Ravana, and Shatrughan Sinha as the narrator, this new release brings a fresh voice cast with dramatic flair. Though it may initially feel different, the new dub complements the animation well, making the viewing experience even more cinematic.

Timeless Animation – Stunning on the Big Screen

Despite being originally made in 1992, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama does not feel outdated. The remastered version ensures that the animation retains its visual impact, looking just as fresh on the big screen as it did back in the 90s. The stunning animation and beautifully designed characters still hold up, making it a must-watch for fans of the epic.

Music That Resonates

Vanraj Bhatia‘s music is another strong point of the film. While the music might sound unfamiliar for those who grew up with the Hindi versions of the songs, the Sanskrit versions are equally captivating. The songs like Janani Main Raamdoot Hanuman and Vaanar Sena continue to elevate the emotional impact of the film. The music complements the visuals perfectly, immersing the viewer in the epic’s journey.

What Could Have Been Better?

While the movie shines in many aspects, it does take a simplified approach to the narrative. Ravana is presented as a one-dimensional villain, and the film omits some important nuances, like Sita’s Agni-Paksha. The story is presented in clear black-and-white terms, focusing more on the high-points of the epic and less on the complexities of the characters. Additionally, the film could have benefited from fewer intervals, as it feels stretched in parts.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Family Movie

Overall, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama stands out as one of the best adaptations of the Ramayana ever made. It is a respectful and visually stunning re-telling of the epic, with excellent animation and a solid voice cast. Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to this version, the film offers a captivating experience that’s perfect for the entire family. For those looking to forget the disappointments of films like Adipurush and Ram Setu, this anime version is a breath of fresh air and a fitting tribute to one of India’s most revered epics.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Movie Details:

• Voiced By: Yudhvir Dahiya, Sonal Kaushal, Rajesh Jolly, Archit Maurya, Uplaksh Koccher, Dishi Duggal
• Directors: Koichi Sasaki, Ram Mohan
• Rating: 3 Stars

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• Image Credit: Excel Movies (Trailer Thumbnail)