Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming a contentious subject in the film industry, particularly due to the rise of AI-generated celebrity videos. These deepfake and face-swapped clips have raised concerns among actors and filmmakers alike. Recently, a new video featuring Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli embroiled in a fierce fight caught the attention of the public and provoked a strong reaction from filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma.
On Tuesday, Ram Gopal Varma shared the AI-generated video on X (formerly Twitter). The clip showcases a violent encounter between Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli inside a café. Although the creator of the video clearly stated it was artificially generated, Varma’s reaction was blunt, tweeting a message that resonated with many: “Cinema is dead.”
The clip sparked mixed reactions across social media platforms. Some users expressed their disapproval, with one stating, “Stop this AI content—it’s too dangerous,” while another sarcastically remarked it was “better than Rajasaab’s VFX.” Concerns were also raised about the implications of such videos, with comments like, “This is scary and sad,” reflecting the feelings of those wary of the technology.
Conversely, other viewers found humor in the footage. One user noted, “At least AI made Mahesh Babu more expressive, lol.” Another chimed in, wishing for such a fight to be included in future films. One fan appreciated the clip, stating, “We enjoyed it a lot, sir. These expressions of MB are what we’ve been missing from his films. Thank you, AI.”
SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu are collaborating for the first time in the film “Varanasi,” which is currently in production. This film features Mahesh Babu in the lead role, with Priyanka Chopra starring as the female protagonist and Prithviraj Sukumaran as the antagonist. The project has created considerable buzz due to its impressive cast.
“Varanasi” is being touted as a large-scale action-adventure and represents Rajamouli’s return to directing after the success of “RRR” in 2022. Notably, the film marks Priyanka Chopra’s awaited return to Indian cinema after an eight-year hiatus. A teaser released last year generated significant excitement, hinting at a time-travel theme.
During the teaser launch event, Rajamouli revealed that Mahesh Babu will take on the role of Lord Rama in one of the film’s sequences, a moment he described as particularly special. The film will also feature Prakash Raj and portray the antagonist in a wheelchair. Set for a theatrical release in April 2027, “Varanasi” promises to be one of the major cinematic events of the year.