Colorizing a Bollywood Legend: AI brings Amitabh Bachchan's iconic Kaalia character to life

Colorizing a Bollywood Legend: AI brings Amitabh Bachchan's iconic Kaalia character to life

This article is part of a series highlighting AI-enhanced photos of beloved actors from cinema history around the world.

Culture Extra is a digital magazine that explores and celebrates culture in all its forms.

This vibrant colorized photo shows Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan in his role as Kallu in the influential 1981 Indian crime drama Kaalia. The original black-and-white film featured Bachchan as an impoverished but good-hearted slum dweller fighting the injustice of a cruel mafia boss.

Original:

Source: r/ClassicDesiCelebs/

AI-Enhanced:

Using AI supplied by DeepAI, the Mumbai chawl backdrop now bursts with color.

Version 2: With auto enhancements and SuperML supplied by Pixelmator Pro.

Bachchan's expressive gaze also comes alive to vividly reflect Kallu's quiet dignity and simmering intensity.

The enhanced digital painting retains the nostalgic charm of the original movie still while revealing new dramatic details. AI allows younger generations to better appreciate Bachchan's legendary acting mastery and on-screen magnetism that catapulted him to fame.

Watch full movie on Youtube:

Until next time.