A Bengaluru-based AI startup, NeuralGarage, has unveiled a breakthrough in film localization by dubbing the entire Hindi action movie War 2 into Telugu using its proprietary VisualDub technology. The transformation delivers both accurate lip-sync and natural actor expressions—making the dubbed version appear as if it were originally filmed in Telugu.
VisualDub: Redefining Dubbing with AI
VisualDub is NeuralGarage’s flagship video transformation model that synchronizes a dubbed voiceover with matching facial movements. Instead of settling for off-the-shelf dubbing where audio and lips remain disconnected, VisualDub adjusts actors' jaw and lip motions based on the new Telugu audio. This creates a seamless audio-visual alignment, preserving the emotional nuance of performances.
Subhabrata Debnath, NeuralGarage’s Co-founder and CTO, explained that the technology ensures a viewer feels as though the film was originally shot in Telugu—even though all scenes, including those of Jr NTR, were shot in Hindi. War 2 released on August 14 after receiving a 'straight' certificate from India’s censorship board.
Enterprise Use Beyond Films
Though deployed for War 2, VisualDub’s applications extend well beyond movies. Film studios like Yash Raj Films and Dharma Productions have used it for title sequences and visually improved lip-sync in songs. Sun TV used it to create multilingual versions of popular content like the song “Chikitu” from Coolie. The technology also corrected visual discrepancies in series like Special Ops.
Clients include major brands and content producers such as Amazon, Unilever, P&G, and Coca-Cola. VisualDub offers API, SaaS, and desktop software deployment options to cater to diverse production workflows.
Overcoming Technical Challenges
Achieving theatrical-quality dubbing involves solving complex problems around color fidelity, frame accuracy, and seamless editing across languages. Debnath noted that effective visual dubbing requires strong frame integrity and editorial interoperability—ensuring the dubbed version remains cinematic and true to the original.
Why This Matters
- Enhanced Cultural Immersion
AI-powered dubbing bridges linguistic gaps without diluting performance authenticity—resonating better with regional audiences. - Cost & Time Efficiency
Eliminates the need for reshoots or expensive localization projects, especially when multiple language versions are required. - Market Expansion for Films & Content
Studios can distribute content in diverse languages quickly without compromising artistic intent. - Corporate and Advertising Utility
Brands and advertisers can adapt content across regions while preserving brand identity and emotional tone.
Challenges to Address
- Technology Access
While scalable and powerful, access to VisualDub depends on enterprise-level integration and client readiness. - Ethical Matching
Ensuring actors’ likenesses are represented ethically and not manipulated is essential—especially in the case of visual cloning. - Creative Oversight
The technology still needs human oversight to ensure cultural nuance isn’t lost during AI-assisted re-interpretation of scenes.
Looking Ahead
NeuralGarage's breakthrough with War 2 represents a growing shift in how content can be tailored for regional audiences. As AI dubbing matures, audiences may soon expect multi-language releases that feel native instead of translated. Content creators and brands alike are watching closely—seeking scalable solutions that maintain both emotional integrity and visual sophistication.