Hrithik Roshan reacts to Ramayana VFX debate, calls for mindful criticism

The teaser glimpse of Ramayana has set off a strong debate online, dividing the internet over its visual effects. While many hailed the scale and ambition of the Ranbir Kapoor-led epic, others questioned its VFX quality. Weighing in on the discussion, Hrithik Roshan shared a detailed note, urging audiences to look beyond surface-level criticism and understand the intent behind a filmmaker’s choices.

Reflecting on his own relationship with visual effects, Hrithik began in his note, “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. As an 11 year old kid I saw Back to the Future on a trip to London and it changed me forever. I became obsessed. I would sit with my dad's VHS player studying the frames pause -play pause-play until I broke the player (sic).”

The actor’s remark about VFX being especially disappointing “when it’s a film I’m part of” also comes in the context of his recent release War 2, which faced criticism from a section of viewers over its visual effects, sparking similar discussions online.

Drawing from that early fascination, the actor praised filmmakers who attempt large-scale cinematic visions. He highlighted projects like Kalki 2898 AD, Baahubali and Ramayana, along with the work of his father Rakesh Roshan in Koi... Mil Gaya and Krrish.

He wrote, “Today some special humans among us, like the makers of films like Kalki 2898 AD, Baahubali, Ramayana, ( also my dad for Koi Mil Gaya and Krrish ofcourse) are my heroes, they have the guts and vision to do what's never been done - all for the love of cinema so that we - the audience get to experience something never watched before (sic)."

Hrithik further emphasised that large-scale films come with significant risks and years of effort, driven by a desire to create unforgettable experiences for audiences. He expressed admiration for such intent, calling it noble and worthy of appreciation. He also said he feels proud of Indian filmmakers and would gladly be part of such ambitious projects in any capacity.

Shifting focus to audiences, the actor pointed out that VFX-heavy films require the dedication of thousands of artists working tirelessly over several years. He urged viewers to approach criticism with greater awareness and sensitivity toward the effort involved.

He added that, based on his limited understanding and what he had learned, filmmakers adopt different VFX styles to bring their vision to life. He explained that, much like in comics or animation, some may prefer anime-style visuals, which are not as realistic as those seen in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. He noted that while one may prefer one style over another, neither approach is wrong.

Concluding his note, Hrithik said, “you can't criticize the maker just cause he has chosen one style while you prefer another style. Thats not fair. So sometimes when you say “bad VFX.” Maybe it’s just a style you didn’t expect? So 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 it. But debate it with awareness (sic).”

About Ramayana

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana features a star-studded cast including Yash, Sai Pallavi, Ravi Dubey and Sunny Deol. The film’s music is composed by Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman, and the first part is scheduled to release globally in October 2026 ahead of Diwali.