'Baahubali-Eternal War' director says animation 'best way' to continue 'Baahubali'
What's the story
Ishan Shukla, the animator-director of Baahubali: The Eternal War, believes that animation is the best way to continue Amarendra Baahubali's journey. The character, played by Prabhas in SS Rajamouli's live-action films Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali: The Conclusion, dies in the first part. Shukla told PTI, "This is the best way to continue Baahubali's journey instead of making a sequel or a prequel for the sake of it." "It really feels like the most organic progression of his story."
Director's insight
Shukla's vision for 'Baahubali: The Eternal War'
Shukla, who has previously worked on projects like Shirkoa and Star Wars: Visions, sees animation as a way to explore the cosmos in The Eternal War. He said, "I thought cosmology, specifically the Vedic cosmology, was the perfect place to take the Baahubali live-action films." "The rules of these worlds are so different...and really bring on all the freedom that cosmology can give you in terms of how much we can accomplish in these different worlds."
Animation strategy
Shukla's approach to animation and audience expectations
Shukla also spoke about his approach to animation for The Eternal War. He said, "I felt that the use of animation was perfect in it because there is only so much you can do in live action." "Sometimes it can be too cartoony, but I could really take a leap in animation and it would make sense even if I bend the rules of the world a little bit."
Target audience
Shukla's film aims to attract 'Baahubali' and animation fans
Shukla wants his movie to appeal to both Baahubali fans and animation lovers. He said, "Baahubali fans are the number one demographic for us and that I think covers all age groups." "Then there is a second layer, which is the animation fans in India, and overseas, who love to watch a visual spectacle...and who love to watch a very stylized animation and action mixed with high emotions." Meanwhile, Baahubali: The Eternal War is set to release in 2027.