Ramayana The Legend of Prince Rama review

Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is not just an animated retelling of the epic; it’s a nostalgic trip for generations of Indians who grew up watching it on Doordarshan or YouTube. Now re-released in 4K in theaters, this 1992 Japanese anime masterpiece, helmed by Yugo Sako, proves why it remains the definitive adaptation of the Ramayana. The remastered visuals, combined with a new dramatic dub, breathe fresh life into a classic that has stood the test of time.

Visuals: Still Fresh After Three Decades

Even after 33 years, the animation in The Legend of Prince Rama feels timeless. The remastering has enhanced its grandeur, making it shine on the big screen. Every frame is meticulously crafted, with the visuals continuing to evoke a sense of awe. For those disheartened by subpar recent adaptations (Adipurush, for instance), this film is a much-needed palate cleanser. The fusion of Japanese anime aesthetics with Indian mythology creates a visual style that remains unparalleled.

Dubbing: New Voices, New Vibes

For those familiar with the original Hindi dub featuring iconic voices like Amrish Puri as Ravana and Arun Govil as Lord Rama, the new dub might feel jarring at first. However, it doesn’t diminish the film’s impact. The updated dubbing leans into a more dramatic, cinematic tone, which complements the heightened emotional stakes of the narrative. While it may lack the nostalgic warmth of the original, it manages to modernize the storytelling for a contemporary audience.

Narrative: Simple and Effective

The film focuses on a pivotal slice of the epic—Lord Rama’s exile, Sita’s abduction, and the climactic battle with Ravana. It maintains the simplicity of the Ramayana, presenting a straightforward tale of good versus evil. This approach ensures accessibility, but it also sacrifices some of the deeper philosophical and moral nuances of the epic. Ravana, for instance, is portrayed purely as a villain, sidelining his intelligence and complexity. Similarly, the omission of Sita’s agni pariksha keeps the narrative streamlined but leaves out a significant aspect of her journey.

Music: A Treat for the Ears

Vanraj Bhatia’s music continues to enchant. Though the Sanskrit versions of beloved songs like Janani Main Raamdoot Hanuman and Vaanar Sena may feel unfamiliar to fans of the Hindi tracks, they fit seamlessly into the film’s fabric. The songs enhance the narrative and transport viewers into the mythological world of the Ramayana.

Strengths and Shortcomings

Strengths:

• Stunning remastered animation.
• A nostalgic yet fresh cinematic experience.
• Music that enhances the narrative’s emotional depth.

Shortcomings:

• A black-and-white portrayal of characters like Ravana.
• Lack of nuanced storytelling for a more layered retelling.
• An unnecessary interval that disrupts the immersive flow.

Final Verdict

Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is more than a film—it’s a celebration of a story that has shaped generations. While it may not explore every facet of the epic, it remains a visually and emotionally compelling adaptation. The re-release in 4K brings new vibrancy to a timeless classic, making it a must-watch for both loyal fans and newcomers alike.

Rating: 4/5
A nostalgic gem polished for the big screen, delivering a timeless tale in all its remastered glory.