The Indian epic Mahabharata has had many adaptations, but every adaptation is based on one question — what new point of view does it give? The latest animated series of Netflix Kurukshetra aims to do just that. It tells the epic story of the Mahabharata, but from the points of view of eighteen warriors who fought in the war, each hero fighting outside enemies, but also inner turmoil, moral dilemmas, and choices and decisions that shaped destiny.

Storyline

Kurukshetra part one has nine episodes, and it begins with some of the most intense moments of the war. The viewer sees Lord Krishna’s highly regarded advising session, as he teaches the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. Dronacharya becoming the commander of the army after Bhishma's fall. The tragic and devastating death of Abhimanyu. For example, the most intense events are filled with heightened animation and deeper drama. Some of the important events such as the death date of Karna and the final mace match of Bhima and Duryodhana are saved and referenced for the second season which keeps the audience waiting for part two.

Positive Points

One of the best parts of Kurukshetra is the preview narration by legendary poet Gulzar. The heavy tone of the intros, narrated in his soulful voice, suckers are right into the spectacle of dharma, karma, and war. “Hum aaj bhi dharm-karm ke usi yudh mein jee rahe hain” - create a smooth transition from the story of the epic to today, reminding us that our own struggles between good and evil rage within us. The quality of the animation was good and the visuals good, capturing both the enormity of the battle and the nuances of the emotions evoked in the characters.

Negative Points

While the narration by Gulzar is stunning, the voice acting of the other characters did not have the same effect. Voice acting often seems flat, lacking in the fervor of the emotions or distinction of each character. There are times when the pacing is also uneven, quite often spending too long on some scenes.

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