The news of Ra. One was announced and hailed as the first sci-fi spectacle that would redefine Indian cinema. Directed by Anubhav Sinha and led by Shah Rukh Khan, the film featured cutting-edge VFX, a global soundtrack, and an ambitious story.
Late 2000s: A transformation was witnessed in Bollywood as grander productions, advanced technology, and a growing appetite for high-concept films were seen. Already an international icon, Shah Rukh Khan was one of the pioneers behind this shift; he wanted to break boundaries and explore more ambitious ideas for Indian cinema. Ra.
One is a sci-fi superhero extravaganza, conceptualized under his vision. Under his guidance came director Anubhav Sinha, a man known so far for some commercially successful ventures but never quite exploring new vistas in cinema.
What was meant to be a game-changing film, however, ended up becoming one of the most polarizing movies in Indian cinema. While some praised its technological advancements, the loud criticism overshadowed any appreciation. In a candid conversation with The Lallantop, Anubhav Sinha, now celebrated for films like Mulk, Article 15, and Thappad opened up about the creative chaos behind Ra. One and why he feels responsible for its downfall.
Anubhav revealed that Ra. One had been on his mind since 2005, and he had begun writing the script a year later. While early discussions with Shah Rukh Khan were happening, nothing had been officially locked. That changed unexpectedly at a press conference in Berlin.
