Following its sensational theatrical run, the Ranbir Kapoor-led action drama ‘Animal’ has transitioned to Netflix, promptly becoming a viewing sensation. Released on Republic Day, this Sandeep Reddy Vanga-directed movie has caused quite the commotion, continuing its successful streak from the box office to the streaming giant.
The record-breaking streaming statistics were revealed by the social media platform, Instant Bollywood, which reported a staggering 20.8 million streaming hours on Netflix within just three days of ‘Animal’s’ premiere. Audiences worldwide have demonstrated their unwavering support for the film, recognizing its caliber by investing their time in significant numbers on the digital platform.
‘Animal’ delves into the complexities of contemporary relationships, with a particular emphasis on the emotional and often turbulent ties between a father and his son. The narrative unfolds around the characters portrayed by Ranbir Kapoor, who takes on a challenging dual role as Ranvijay and Aziz Haque. His father, Balbir Singh, is played by the veteran actor Anil Kapoor, while Bobby Deol delivers a compelling performance as Abrar Haque.
Adding to the dynamic cast are Rashmika Mandanna, who brings life to the character of Geetanjali, Ranbir’s wife; and Triptii Dimri, who plays Zoya. The cast is further enriched by seasoned actors such as Shakti Kapoor, Prem Chopra, and Suresh Oberoi, contributing to the film’s depth and broad appeal.
In a statement regarding the Netflix release, Ranbir Kapoor expressed his delight at the movie’s reception and the opportunity to reach an international audience from the comfort of their homes. He highlighted the special nature of showcasing their work on a global stage, acknowledging the evolving paradigms of movie-watching post-theatrical release.
While the film has enjoyed massive success, ‘Animal’ has also been at the center of a heated debate, as certain themes and interpretations were accused of being misogynistic and problematic. This sparked widespread discussions and a national conversation on the portrayal of sensitive topics in cinema. Initially, the filmmakers and the director seemed to downplay the controversy. Yet, Sandeep Reddy Vanga later stood by his creative choices, prompting a response from the lead actor, Ranbir Kapoor.
In a recent video circulating on the internet featuring the cast and comedic talent Anubhav Singh Bassi, the discussion around ‘Animal’s’ contentious elements was brought to the forefront. Ranbir Kapoor stated that the debate has been beneficial, asserting that cinema’s role is to initiate societal conversations. Emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing toxic masculinity, Kapoor expressed his view that by igniting dialogue, cinema can help society acknowledge and question its faults and values.
As ‘Animal’ continues to captivate Netflix viewers globally, the conversation it has started on and off-screen signifies its impact on modern storytelling. It is a testament to the film’s powerful narrative and commanding performances that keeps audiences engaged and reflective, potentially heralding a change in the way challenging themes are tackled in mainstream cinema.
