Animal movie review: Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna
Hindi movie "Animal" is directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and stars Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna, Tripti Dimri, Shakti Kapoor, and Prem Chopra.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga's latest action film, Animal, has already taken the Indian box office by storm. However, the film's emphasis on shock value over substance has left many critics unimpressed. Vanga's previous works, Arjun Reddy (2017) and its Hindi remake Kabir Singh (2019), were both commercial successes but also drew criticism for glorifying violent and misogynistic behavior. Unfortunately, Animal takes this trend even further, resulting in a protagonist that is among the most repugnant to ever grace the silver screen.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for his movies centered around boys and their toys, presents yet another film with a protagonist burdened by deep-rooted fatherly problems. However, what catches one off guard is the unexpected deviation of 'Animal' from its initial trajectory, despite its initial momentum. If the film had concluded at the halfway mark, it would have effectively conveyed its intended message.
The narrative of Animal delves into the yearning of a son to gain his father's validation, despite the gruesome and violent nature of the story. Its songs are not romantic in nature, but rather depict a thirst for revenge. The female characters, despite their radiance, are merely used as props. Ranbir Kapoor is at the center of the film, but it is unclear whether he is the protagonist or if the antagonist, who is equally savage, holds that title. It is rare for a Hindi film, especially one with a multi-lingual format like Animal, to feature heroes and anti-heroes who are not physically impressive.
In the first half of the film, a clever twist is employed where Kapoor's full name is not revealed until the intermission. Kapoor, the son of India's largest steel baron, yearns for his father's affection and attention. He also takes on the role of a protective brother to his two sisters, seeking revenge for the bullying his elder sister endured.
However, despite his efforts, Anil Kapoor's character, the father, only sees his son as a criminal and sends him away to boarding school. Throughout the movie, you catch glimpses of Kapoor's previous roles in films like Rockstar and Barfi, as well as a glimpse of his character from Sanju in the closing moments. Nevertheless, in Animal, Kapoor's performance transcends these individual parts.
As the story progresses, there are unexpected twists and turns where logic seems to have no place. The dialogue often falls into mundane territory, and the humor, particularly a reference to underwear, is of a crude nature. The film's true highlight is the action, which garnered applause from the sparse audience during an early winter morning show. You'll witness an armored version of the Bat Mobile and hordes of Darth Vader look-alikes. However, as the action scenes blend into one another, it becomes a blur of violence.
The revelation of the villain's identity and his connection to the family is truly captivating. Bobby Deol, who is currently enjoying a remarkable resurgence in the Hindi film industry, delivers a memorable and enticing moment. He presents a formidable challenge to the younger Kapoor, engaging in a knock-for-knock, bare-bodied showdown. Animal belongs to Kapoor, as his performance shines through even when the dialogue falls short. The subtle hint of an unshed tear in his eyes and the tremor in his face convey the depth of his character's emotions. The elder Kapoor, portraying the father who realizes his son's torment too late, remains as reliable as ever.
Rashmika Mandanna effectively portrays a conflicted woman, and credit goes to the director for allowing her to retain her natural accent. Tripti Dimri, on the other hand, radiates luminosity in a role that should come as no surprise. However, both actresses are ultimately underutilized in this narrative dominated by alpha males, a recurring theme in the film. The cinematography shines in certain moments, particularly when the vibrant red of a carpet compensates for the impending bloodshed. Unfortunately, the music adds little to the overall experience, despite its individual merit.
Animal hints at the possibility of a sequel. If that becomes a reality, it is advisable to refrain from consuming popcorn during the show. For those who are easily disturbed, it will taste like blood. Such is the gruesome power of this paisa vasool film, which demands more courage than rationality.
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