Ranbir Kapoor “Animal” movie review
Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s previous works like Arjun Reddy and Kabir Singh, brace yourself for an even more intense experience as you delve into his latest creation, Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor. “Animal,” featuring Ranbir Kapoor in a high-octane action tale, has generated a whirlwind of discussions. The film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, has left audiences divided with its intense violence, flawed narrative, and questionable treatment of female characters. Despite its evident shortcomings, “Animal” manages to entertain, creating a peculiar blend of contradictions that has sparked debates within the film industry and among viewers. IMDb review this movie as: 8.4/ 10
Violence reaches its crescendo, with gore taking center stage in a bloodbath that spans the entirety of the screen. Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s highly anticipated Animal has been unleashed, thrusting Ranbir Kapoor into a devilish, menacing, and unhinged avatar. The question arises: do we love him? Undoubtedly. Do we resent him? Hell yes. The problematic premise of Animal has been a subject of discussion since its teaser and trailer were unveiled. However, the full film unfolds as a series of events, emotions, and sequences leading up to a climax that proves underwhelming. The rushed conclusion leaves viewers anticipating if something more significant is yet to come post the end credits.
This movie takes you on a relentless journey filled with blood, noise, gore, and violence, and for the most part, you won’t find yourself complaining. The film expertly immerses you in its gripping tale and grand scale, but there’s a persistent sense of bewilderment each time the hero takes action. Glorified as an anti-hero, Ranvijay Singh (Ranbir Kapoor) idolizes and worships his father, Balbir Singh (Anil Kapoor), spending much of his childhood yearning for his love and attention, only to be met with disappointment. Daddy issues start plaguing his life from a young age, casting obvious repercussions on the entirety of his formative years.
One aspect of “Animal” that has garnered significant attention is its unabashed portrayal of violence. The movie doesn’t shy away from intense and graphic scenes, earning it an ‘A’ (adults only) rating. Critics have expressed concerns about the gratuitous nature of the violence, suggesting that it may be excessive and unnecessary. While the film does cater to those who enjoy action-packed sequences, the overt brutality has left some viewers uncomfortable and questioning the need for such explicit content.
Another contentious issue surrounding “Animal” is the portrayal of female characters in the film. Critics have accused the movie of perpetuating misogynistic stereotypes, with female characters often reduced to one-dimensional roles that serve the male-centric narrative. The film has been criticized for its objectification of women and the lack of agency given to its female cast members. In an era where the industry is increasingly called upon to portray women in more empowering roles, “Animal” appears to have missed the mark, raising concerns about the perpetuation of regressive stereotypes in mainstream cinema.
The film’s entertainment value cannot be denied, and for those who appreciate raw and intense cinema, “Animal” delivers on its promise. The gripping performances of the cast, especially Kapoor, contribute significantly to the overall appeal of the movie, overshadowing some of its narrative and thematic missteps.
Ranbir Kapoor is in top form, embodying Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s vision for Animal in its truest sense. He skillfully navigates the fine line between vulnerability and villainous traits, creating a character that is both captivating and complex. Kapoor’s performance has the remarkable ability to make you fall for his character, and even in moments of intense violence where he is shot or punched, you can’t help but feel sympathy rather than wishing for his demise.
3 hours and 22 minutes, Animal stands as one of the longest films watched in a very long time. However, its determination to leave an impact seems to come at a cost, as the high-pitched dialogues have a piercing quality that can cause discomfort and even a headache. Throughout the film, there are moments where you wish for subtlety, both visually and verbally, as certain portions could have benefited from a more understated approach.
Animal emerges as an absolute massy, entertaining, and undeniably violent thriller that boldly defies conventional norms. The film’s commitment to unfiltered storytelling is evident in its refusal to hold back on the bloodshed. It’s a warning to the weak-hearted, urging caution for those who choose to watch, as the intensity of the violence is not for everyone. Proceed with caution, as the film unleashes a substantial amount of brutality that might be overwhelming for some viewers.
Published by HOLR Magazine.