In a fervent display of criticism, Bollywood actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has taken aim at Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s directorial venture ‘Animal’, starring renowned actors Ranbir Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Triptii Dimri, Bobby Deol, and Anil Kapoor. The film, which has been widely criticized for its overt misogynistic undertones and derogatory portrayal of women, was scathingly denounced by Ranaut in a recent interview, adding fuel to an ongoing debate about the representation of women in cinema.
Engaged in a promotional campaign for her upcoming movie ‘Emergency’, Ranaut did not hold back while expressing her disdain for ‘Animal’. During her interview with a prominent media outlet, she remarked, “Patriarchal films do well at the box office. I wonder where are all these people coming from. They clap and whistle. If men set out holding axes and engage in a bloodbath, no one is asking about law and order, they take machine guns and go to school, as if there are no police or consequences. They kill people, and pile up bodies, why? Masti (Enjoyment). Drugs karke mast hain (They enjoy doing drugs). Look at the audience that goes to watch such movies. What can I say for such a society? It is a matter of concern. Such films should be discouraged and criticized. The punishment they receive should also be promoted.”
Ranaut’s candid remarks come in the wake of ‘Animal’s’ monumental box office success. The film, which emerged as one of the highest-grossing movies of 2023, amassed over Rs 800 crore. It narrates the compelling yet violent story of a fraught father-son relationship, with Ranbir Kapoor playing the role of Ranvijay Singh who seeks revenge following an assassination attempt on his father.
. The film’s narrative and unflinching portrayal of violence, however, have not sat well with critics, including Ranaut, who argue that it glorifies patriarchal violence and offers no substantial discourse on the depicted misogyny.
Despite the controversies surrounding its content, ‘Animal’ has secured a fervent fanbase, in part due to a tantalizing post-credits scene that hints at a sequel titled ‘Animal Park’, potentially featuring Ranbir Kapoor in a double role. The anticipation for the sequel has only heightened, given Kapoor’s acclaimed performance, which earned him the Best Actor Award (Male) at the 69th Filmfare Awards.
Meanwhile, Kangana Ranaut is poised to make waves with her ambitious project, ‘Emergency’. The actress is taking the helm as director, and the film is set to offer a gripping retelling of the historical 1975 emergency period in India, a time when political turmoil gripped the nation under the reign of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, a role essayed by Ranaut herself. Enhancing the film’s appeal is its stellar cast, including veteran actors such as Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik in pivotal roles.
Set to hit theatres worldwide on September 6, 2024, ‘Emergency’ is a collaborative effort by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films. The project promises to bring to life the intense political drama of one of India’s most tumultuous periods, backed by a screenplay and dialogues penned by Ritesh Shah and musical compositions from Sanchit Balhara. The film aims not just to entertain but to educate audiences on a significant chapter in the nation’s history.
Ranaut’s vociferous stance on social and political issues often draws considerable attention, and her critique of ‘Animal’ is no different. Her condemnation of the film has sparked discussions on the responsibilities of filmmakers in portraying sensitive social issues. Her comments suggest a call to action for both audiences and creators to strive for cinema that reflects a more balanced and respectful portrayal of all genders.
As the conversation around the portrayal of women in media continues to evolve, Ranaut’s outspoken views on ‘Animal’ underscore a larger push towards more progressive narratives in Indian cinema. With ‘Emergency’ on the horizon, it is expected that Ranaut will further champion these values through her directorial vision and storytelling prowess. The industry, as well as audiences, await to see if the tides of change will follow.
