London-based visual effects powerhouse DNEG is leveraging its expertise to construct the sprawling mythological world of "Ramayana: Part One," an ambitious Indian film production poised for a global release. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Prime Focus Studios in association with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the film is set to redefine epic storytelling through advanced digital artistry.
Bringing Ayodhya and Lanka to Life
“Ramayana: Part One,” starring Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana, is envisioned as a two-part cinematic adaptation. The first installment is scheduled for November 2026, with the second following in 2027. The production’s commitment to a large-scale theatrical experience is underscored by its development for the IMAX format.
Visual effects are pivotal in adapting the ancient Ramayana for the big screen. DNEG, working alongside ReDefine (another Prime Focus Group company), is responsible for creating and extending environments like the mythical cities of Ayodhya and Lanka, constructing digital landscapes, enhancing battle sequences, and seamlessly integrating computer-generated elements with physical sets and live actor performances.
International Collaboration and Advanced Technology
The film benefits from a blend of international creative talent. Production designers Ravi Bansal and Ramsey Avery are part of the team, while action choreography is helmed by Terry Notary and Guy Norris. Their collaborative efforts ensure a cohesive visual language that connects physical performances, camera movements, and set design with sophisticated digital imagery.
The wider Prime Focus technology ecosystem, including Brahma AI, is also exploring the use of artificial intelligence and real-time production workflows. These technologies could potentially support various tasks in visual development, image processing, and post-production, optimizing the complex production pipeline.
DNEG's Legacy of Cinematic Excellence
Founded in London in 1998 as Double Negative, DNEG has grown into a major global player in visual effects, animation, and creative technology following its 2014 merger with Prime Focus World. The studio boasts an impressive track record, having won eight Academy Awards for Best Visual Effects since 2011, alongside eight BAFTA Awards and 26 Visual Effects Society Awards.
DNEG's extensive portfolio includes work on blockbuster films such as Christopher Nolan’s Inception (2010), Interstellar (2014), and Tenet (2020), as well as Blade Runner 2049 (2017), First Man (2018), Dune: Part One (2021), and Dune: Part Two (2024). Their contributions to these critically acclaimed films highlight the studio’s capability to deliver breathtaking visual spectacles, a skill set now being applied to the epic scale of "Ramayana: Part One."