Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film ‘Animal,’ featuring Bollywood luminary Ranbir Kapoor alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Triptii Dimri, Bobby Deol, and Anil Kapoor, has come under intense scrutiny for its portrayal of women. The movie, which has been criticized for its underlying misogyny and derogatory representation of women, was recently lambasted by none other than Bollywood actress and BJP MP, Kangana Ranaut.
During her promotional rounds for her forthcoming movie ‘Emergency,’ Kangana did not hold back in criticizing ‘Animal.’ In a recent interview, she vehemently expressed her concerns about the film’s depiction of women and the problematic narratives it perpetuates. Kangana stated, “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 mas 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 criticised. The punishment they receive should also be promoted.”
The conversation steers from her critique to the broader thematic relevance of ‘Animal.’ Despite the backlash, ‘Animal’ was one of the biggest commercial successes of 2023. The narrative delves into the tumultuous dynamics of a father-son relationship, with Ranbir Kapoor portraying Ranvijay Singh.
. The plot thickens as Ranvijay takes a path of vengeance following an assassination attempt on his father. The film’s violent and intense storyline struck a chord with the audience, bringing in over Rs 800 crore at the box office. Moreover, an exciting post-credit scene teased a potential sequel, ‘Animal Park,’ hinting at Ranbir Kapoor taking on a dual role.
Beyond box office numbers, ‘Animal’ received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly Ranbir Kapoor’s, who won the Best Actor Award (Male) at the 69th Filmfare Awards for his role in the film.
While ‘Animal’ raked in accolades and financial success, Kangana’s acclaim currently surrounds a different genre and narrative style altogether. Her upcoming project, ‘Emergency,’ promises to be a historical drama based on one of the most controversial and politically charged periods in India’s history. The film, completely helmed by Kangana Ranaut herself, is set against the Emergency period imposed in 1975. Ranaut portrays Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India. The film brings together a stellar cast featuring accomplished actors like Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik in significant roles.
Produced by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films, ‘Emergency’ is gearing up for its worldwide premiere on September 6, 2024. The film, which seeks to portray a significant chapter of India’s political history, has been carefully crafted with a screenplay and dialogues written by Ritesh Shah and a stirring musical score orchestrated by Sanchit Balhara. It is anticipated to be a poignant recounting that aims to captivate audiences with its gripping narrative and historical relevance.
The contrast between ‘Animal’s’ violent, patriarchal themes and ‘Emergency’s’ historical, politically charged drama highlights the diversity of Bollywood’s storytelling spectrum. While ‘Animal’ continues to draw crowds despite its contentious themes, a call for greater scrutiny from industry stalwarts like Kangana Ranaut signals a push for more responsibility in cinema.
As Ranaut fervently advocates for criticism and discouragement of films like ‘Animal’ that perpetuate negative stereotypes and misogyny, her own role in producing and acting in films that portray strong, multifaceted characters stands as a testimony to the kind of cinematic shift she envisions.
The conversation around ‘Animal’ and films alike serves as a reminder of the influential power of cinema and the pressing need for narratives that do more than entertain—they should also educate and uplift.
