
📌 Key Points
- Ramayana teaser receives mixed reviews, particularly for its artificial-looking sets.
- Social media users compare the teaser’s visuals unfavorably to Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan.
- Ponniyin Selvan praised for using real locations and minimal CGI, enhancing visual appeal.
- Users highlight the importance of real locations and practical effects in historical dramas.
The Ramayana teaser has sparked debate online, with viewers drawing comparisons to the visuals of ‘Ponniyin Selvan’. Many feel the teaser’s CGI-heavy approach falls short, praising Mani Ratnam’s films for their use of real locations and natural visuals.
Ramayana Teaser Divides Opinion
The new Ramayana teaser, which introduced Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, received mixed reviews on social media, especially for the artificial-looking sets.
Ponniyin Selvan’s Visuals Praised
Another user commented, “Glad this movie was shot in real locations, instead of gimmicky, glossy, otherworldly VFX. When the chola heritage is right in front of our eyes (temples, dams) there is no need for VFX.” A comment read, “The reason the PS movies looked visually splendid was that they were mostly shot on location with CGI whenever needed. I do get some movies need more VFX than others, but when you’re making a live action movie, it means a healthy mix of real locations and CGI.”
The Debate: CGI vs. Real Locations
Several users agreed that the Tamil film had real locations and had breathtaking visuals, shot by Ravi Varman. He also won the National Award for Best Cinematography for his work on the film. “Mani Ratnam chose real locations over VFX & that’s why Ponniyin Selvan will age like fine wine While many films chase scale with CGI, PS builds world through natural light, real landscapes & grounded production design. That authenticity gives timeless life even after 30 years,” wrote a fan.
Ultimately, the comparison highlights the importance of balancing VFX with real-world elements. The success of ‘Ponniyin Selvan’ underscores how authenticity and location shooting can create a more immersive and visually appealing cinematic experience.


