Movie Review: Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal – A Wild Ride with a Twist!

At the recent trailer launch of his new movie Animal, Ranbir Kapoor compared it to a grown-up version of Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. And let me tell you, he wasn’t exaggerating! Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, this film takes the intensity of Kabir Singh and Arjun Reddy to a whole new level. Animal isn’t for the faint-hearted – the trailer’s violence is just a glimpse of what unfolds in its three-hour-and-twenty-one-minute runtime.

Want to know what Animal is all about? Ranbir Kapoor takes on the role of Ranvijay, also known as Vijay or Animal, who has a complex relationship with his father, Balbir Singh, played by Anil Kapoor. Their issues go beyond just clashes of ego. Vijay has always had an intense love for his father, which others find a bit unusual, while his father has been too preoccupied to connect with him. Coming back from the US after eight years with his family, Vijay is compelled to seek revenge when his father is targeted. His quest for justice leads him down a violent path, risking everything, including his marriage to Gayatri (Rashmika Mandanna). While the theme of seeking vengeance for one’s parents isn’t new to Bollywood, Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s approach in Animal sets it apart. The film’s intense violence pushes the boundaries, leaving a lasting impact. Vanga’s promise to revolutionize action cinema in India is evident in the movie’s stylish and meticulously crafted action sequences, bringing a fresh perspective to the genre. One standout moment features Ranbir facing off against a horde of masked assailants armed with guns and axes, showcasing a unique blend of action and emotion.

The performances in “Animal” are quite intriguing. Ranbir Kapoor effortlessly portrays the troubled man-child role, showcasing his talent. Anil Kapoor’s portrayal as the regretful father is also commendable. The female cast, including Rashmika Mandanna, Charu Shankar, Saloni Batra, and Tripti Dimri, despite their underdeveloped characters, deliver strong performances. Bobby Deol’s character adds to the intensity of the film, albeit with limited screen time. Technically, the movie shines with stylish cinematography by Amit Roy and a powerful background score by Harshwardhan and Rameshwar, accompanied by great music. The village scenes involving Ranbir and his brothers are well-executed. However, despite the strong performances and technical aspects, “Animal” falls short due to its flaws, leaving a jarring impact. Comparisons to “Kabir Singh” highlight the extreme nature of “Animal,” making the former seem tame in comparison. It’s like “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham” on steroids!