Animal Movie Review: Bollywood’s Most Misogynist Product?
In the vibrant realm of Bollywood, where every movie promises a unique experience, Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal” emerges as a rollercoaster ride through the twisted corridors of family drama, revenge, and unbridled masculinity. Picture a Godfather narrative injected with steroids and sprinkled with the unmistakable flair of Animal Movie Review: Bollywood , and you’ve got a glimpse of the cinematic spectacle that unfolds in this 3-hour, 21-minute saga.
At the heart of “Animal” is Vijay, portrayed by the charismatic Ranbir Kapoor. Vijay is a man who has spent his life craving the love and attention of his affluent father, played by the evergreen Anil Kapoor. The plot takes a gripping turn when Vijay’s father becomes the target of a violent attack, sending the protagonist into a relentless pursuit of revenge against those responsible. This Godfather-esque tale, however, is devoid of the psychological tension that characterized its iconic counterpart.
The film’s central theme revolves around the belief that blood is thicker than water, and that the unity of family is sacrosanct, even in the face of twisted relationships.
As Vijay declares himself the ‘man of the house’ after his father’s shooting, the alpha male persona takes center stage. Despite his anger and unresolved issues with his father, Vijay manages to maintain an active love life. His seduction of Geetanjali, played by Rashmika Mandanna, unfolds through toxic macho traits and erratic, inappropriate humor. The film takes a bold plunge into portraying a relationship laden with complexities, reminiscent of Christian Grey’s domineering presence.
Vijay’s character, cocky, broken, and problematic, aligns with the pop culture celebration of bad boys. However, Sandeep Reddy Vanga takes this romanticization to the extreme. The image of women and violence raises questions yet affects the protagonist.
The film’s major flaw lies in the lack of purpose within the story. Vijay’s gun-wielding, angry young man persona comes off as a rebel without a cause, leaving the audience grappling for a deeper motive behind the mayhem. The father-son discord, which forms the crux of the narrative, stays largely unexplored.
While the Kapoors and Bobby Deol are the focus, other characters are reduced to background roles. Female characters appear modest, yet Rashmika Mandanna’s Hindi word understanding excels the film’s message.
The action sequences, while feeling somewhat like interruptions, are expertly shot. The Ranbir-Bobby fight scene, in particular, exudes the intensity of Troy’s iconic Hector-Achilles hand-to-hand combat. The background score and music seamlessly blend with the film’s mood, adding layer to the cinematic experience.
Tripti Dimri makes an impactful cameo in the movie as she portrays the character of Zoya, an enemy ally. She encapsulates the role of Zoya brilliantly. Vijay and Zoya have many intimate scenes together and later it is revealed that Zoya is an enemy ally and was sent by Abrar (Bobby Deol).
“Animal” leans heavily on Ranbir Kapoor’s undeniable talent and stardom. His raw sex appeal and unmatched intensity become the film’s highlights, trapping the viewer in Vijay’s troubled mind.
Ranbir Kapoor’s powerful performance captivates and draws viewers in. His dangerously unpredictable quality finds its zenith in the Vaastav-like crucial climax scene.
However, despite Ranbir Kapoor’s brilliance, “Animal” falls short of becoming a masterpiece. It could have been a compelling conversation between a father and his son, exploring the roots of their discord. Instead, the film becomes an exploration of all swag and no substance, a deranged family drama lacking a purposeful narrative.
In conclusion, “Animal” takes its audience on a wild ride through the tumultuous landscape of family dynamics, revenge, and unconventional relationships. Despite its flaws, “Dunki” offers a unique blend that leaves viewers both surprised and captivated.
Ranbir Kapoor’s performance deserves applause, but one can’t help but yearn for a more substantial storyline to match his extraordinary talent. In “Animal,” an exactly built storyline outperforms even familial relationships.
