The recently unveiled poster for the upcoming film featuring Allu Arjun and director Atlee has ignited controversy just hours after its release, with social media users alleging that the visuals bear a resemblance to those from Dune. Released by Sun Pictures in celebration of surpassing six million views on the announcement video, the poster was quickly compared to the acclaimed 2021 sci-fi film.
An individual on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted the similarities by sharing the Dune poster, accusing Atlee of directly copying it. The user commented, “My brother, it hasn’t even started and you’ve already lifted the Dune poster?”
Another user tweeted a side-by-side comparison, stating, “We have such great talent in the country, why resort to copying? If you do, why not be more subtle? The poster indeed looks impressive, but perhaps they thought it was worth the gamble. Did Allu Arjun and Atlee really copy Dune?”
In addition to the Dune controversy, one user pointed out another poster from the same team that appeared to mimic visuals from Interstellar, joking, “The posters are a mix of Interstellar, Dune, Star Wars, etc. Regardless, if Atlee can deliver a good presentation, I’m on board.”
Another critic called out Atlee, saying, “First it’s Interstellar, and now Dune. @Atlee_dir, have some dignity, da.” Following this, another comment read, “Why not create your own poster instead of copying?” A further user noted, “Is this stealing already? I see.”
Fans quickly highlighted visual similarities, including the layout, color scheme, and desert-like aesthetic that closely resembled promotional materials from Dune. One user quipped, “Atlee just rebranded Dune and called it a day,” while others pointed out the striking parallels.
Atlee, known for his work on Jawan, has faced similar scrutiny in the past for allegedly borrowing elements from previous hits. In a 2023 interview, he defended his artistic style, stating, “In the creative field, you end up making similar stories. That doesn’t mean I copy them. It can be inspired.”
The forthcoming project, currently titled AA 22, is being characterized as a sci-fi action adventure. The teaser suggests a high-budget production with collaboration from Hollywood VFX teams. Atlee has referred to the film as his “dream project,” commending Allu Arjun and producer Kalanithi Maran for their support.
Anticipation is building for AA 22, particularly with music composed by rising talent Sai Abhyankkar. While the full cast has yet to be announced, filming is expected to commence soon.