Home > 

Acclaimed Actress Konkona Sen Sharma Critiques ‘Animal’ and Declines Viewing


Renowned for her discerning choice of roles and exceptional acting prowess, Konkona Sen Sharma once again made headlines as she shared her candid views on the much-discussed movie ‘Animal’. Amidst her celebrated performance in the thriller series ‘Killer Soup’, Konkona talked about her disinterest in watching ‘Animal’, opting out of a cinematic experience that she believes does not align with her values, despite ‘Animal’s box office success.

Her stance on the portrayal of violence and sex in cinema became a focal point in a recent interview with ANI Podcast, hosted by Smita Prakas. Konkona argued that depictions of such sensitive topics are acceptable only if they serve a narrative purpose or contribute to the depth of the characters. Unnecessary inclusion solely for shock value or titillation, in her opinion, fails to justify its presence on-screen.

This thoughtful perspective gained Konkona appreciation, for both her measured criticism and her emphasis on conscious content consumption. Her comments stirred a conversation about ethical storytelling and responsible media consumption, important topics in an industry often scrutinized for its influence on societal norms.

The specificity of her critique didn’t weaken her overall opinion on content quality. Konkona clearly stated that she is not against violence and sex in films per se, but rather against their arbitrary portrayal without context or reason. This nuanced view highlights her understanding of cinema as a powerful medium that can and should reflect deliberate storytelling choices.

Addressing ‘Animal’ directly, Konkona shared her reservations, chiefly stemming from director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s previous works which, according to her, glorified stalking and normalized violence in relationships. She expressed doubt that ‘Animal’ would deviate from those themes, classifying it as a genre she typically avoids. Konkona remained diplomatic, acknowledging the film’s commercial success and suggesting that it clearly resonates with its intended audience, even if she doesn’t count herself among them.

The dialogue surrounding ‘Animal’ isn’t solely about personal taste but delves into the broader implications of cinema and the responsibility of filmmakers. Konkona’s comments highlight a growing demand for content that presents complex subjects with the depth and sensitivity they warrant.

Konkona Sen Sharma doesn’t stray from her standards when it comes to choosing film projects. Her current role in ‘Killer Soup’ is a testament to her dedication to meaningful and resonating artistry. The series, directed by the talented Abhishek Chaubey, features a powerhouse ensemble cast including Manoj Bajpayee, Nasser, Sayaji Shinde, Lal, Anbuthasan, Anula Navlekar, and Kani Kusruti, who bring to life a gripping narrative of mishaps, mayhem, and murder.

In the series, Konkona portrays Swathi Shetty, an ambitious cook whose aspirations cascade into unexpected chaos. This darkly comedic crime drama has won over audiences with its inventive plot and enthralling performances. Konkona’s role further cements her status as an actress who can traverse a range of genres, all while infusing her characters with authenticity and gravitas.

As she continues to captivate audiences on-screen, Konkona Sen Sharma simultaneously influences off-screen dialogue about the film industry’s cultural responsibilities. Her clear stance on ‘Animal’ is not only about personal preference but serves as a commentary on the larger currents within the world of cinema, advocating for the responsible portrayal of complex and potentially harmful themes. In doing so, Konkona not only preserves her place as one of Indian cinema’s most revered talents but also as a voice that prompts reflection and discernment about the content we choose to consume and create.