Ramayana first cut screened in Los Angeles: Ranbir Kapoor’s epic earns glowing praise for scale, visuals and rooted storytelling

The much-anticipated big-screen adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, has taken its first major step towards release with a special first-cut screening held in Los Angeles. The early response from industry insiders and select audience members has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong praise for the film’s grand scale, immersive visual effects, and emotionally rooted storytelling.

First Cut Screening in Los Angeles Draws Positive Buzz

The makers recently hosted a closed-door first-cut screening in Los Angeles at the Cinemark Playa Vista movie screen on the evening February 23, marking the film’s first international showcase. According to early feedback, viewers were impressed by the film’s spectacular world-building, detailed VFX, and cinematic ambition, with many calling it one of the most visually ambitious Indian films ever mounted. The special show was arranged for people ranging from age groups 18 to 60, and had a varied section of audience amongst them.

Those who attended the screening reportedly lauded the balance between scale and emotion, noting that the narrative stays deeply connected to the spirit of the epic while presenting it in a visually contemporary format, as per a report in The Week. The film’s technical finesse, production design, and visual effects work were singled out as standout elements.

Praise for Rooted Storytelling and Emotional Core

Beyond the visuals, the strongest appreciation came for the film’s rooted storytelling. Early reactions suggest that the makers have retained the essence, cultural depth, and moral philosophy of the Ramayana, presenting it in a way that resonates with both Indian and global audiences.

Reports have described the film as emotionally engaging, driven by powerful character arcs rather than spectacle alone. The storytelling reportedly focuses on relationships, duty, sacrifice, and inner conflict, central themes of the epic, ensuring the narrative remains accessible and heartfelt.

With the first-cut feedback generating strong buzz, the makers are expected to move into the final post-production phase, including polishing the visual effects, background score, and editing. Industry insiders believe the film is shaping up to be a global cinematic event, aimed at appealing to both Indian and international viewers.

More about Ramayana

The Ramayana will have Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravi Dubey as Laxman, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman and Yash as Ravan. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the first of the two-part film franchise is slated to hit the screens in November this year, on Diwali. A second part of the film is expected to release later.