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The reactions to Ramayana: Rise Of A Legend trailer 1 and trailer 2 are still hot off the griddle, and the first responses to its LA premiere are already out. Many attendees have taken to social media to commend the epic’s ambitious scope, and heap praise on the ensemble’s solid performances. The screening comes with an embargo on full reviews until Friday, but brief, spoiler-free reactions are out and already very vocal and varied. Let’s take a look!
Where did Ramayana: Rise Of A Legend Premiere Take Place?
The makers chose LA’s iconic David Geffen Theatre at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for a 3D, invitation-only screening. Taking place on Tuesday night, October 28, 2026, attendees had the option to choose between the original Hindi and the English-dubbed versions.
Word is: The Hindi version offers more lore and cultural authenticity, while the English dub has about 30 minutes shaved off it to cater to international tastes. Early reviews show a trend of US audiences opting for the Hindi version over the English dub.
What are Initial Reactions to Ramayana Part 1 Film?
People have come out in support of the film right out of its LA premiere. One attendee took to X to praise the cast of Ramayana: Rise Of A Legend, describing Ranbir Kapoor’s Rama as “sublime” while Yash’s Ravana as “magnetic.”
Another user likened their experience of the film to a three-hour-long theme park ride, whereas one user said they were moved to tears watching the film.
Another X user shared his Letterboxd review, in which he writes, “It had everything from high fantasy, romance, action, and pure blockbuster excellence.” Many attendees have showered special praise for Yash, also asking others to watch the film on the biggest screen possible.
Who All Attended the LA Premiere?
The new film of Ranbir Kapoor was screened in the actor’s presence, with Yash and Sai Pallavi of the main cast also gracing the premiere. It was also attended by producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari. That’s not all: a number of notable figures from Hollywood and the world over attended the premiere as well.
Some of the most famous attendees at the invite-only premiere included: Jada Pinkett Smith, Jonathan Scott, and Karen Fukuhara. Lanterns‘ Poorna Jagannathan, who was Ranbir Kapoor’s co-star in Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, was delighted to reunite with the Bollywood superstar.
What is the Audience Response to Ramayana: Rise Of A Legend?
There’s a real blend of response emanating from the US screening of the film, materialising in largely positive word of mouth regarding the epic’s key cinematic elements. People are awed at the stunning scale, while some CGI spectacles leave something to be desired.
Element |
Praises |
Criticisms |
Performances |
Ranbir’s restraint; Yash’s in-frame dominance; Sai Pallavi’s grace are standouts |
Largely quiet response for the supporting roles of Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, or Sunny Deol |
Spectacle |
Ambitious visuals and awe-inspiring imagery offer an epic experience |
VFX on Asuras feels shoddy |
Production |
CGI, VFX, and design translate the Indian epic for the biggest film format |
Music falls short in matching the divinity |
Story |
An unforgettable cliffhanger leaves fans asking for more |
Uneven pacing with dragging exposition blocks |
