Ranbir Kapoor’s 2023 film, Animal, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, sparked a lot of conversations among audiences and critics alike. The movie, known for its intense storyline and Ranbir’s powerful performance, garnered mixed reactions. While some praised Ranbir’s acting and the film’s technical aspects, others criticized its portrayal of women and the controversial character of Ranvijay, played by Ranbir. Recently, actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar weighed in on the movie, offering his candid opinion.
Farhan Akhtar’s Take on ‘Animal’
In a recent interview with journalist Faye D’Souza, Farhan Akhtar shared his views on Animal. The filmmaker, known for his critically acclaimed work, did not hold back in expressing his thoughts. Farhan revealed that he wasn’t particularly impressed with the film. He acknowledged the strong performances and technical brilliance but admitted that the overall narrative didn’t resonate with him.
Farhan’s main concern was the message conveyed by the film. He found Ranbir Kapoor’s character, Ranvijay, to be particularly troubling. “The film didn’t do anything special for me. There’s nothing in it that I would recommend to others. I wouldn’t choose to work on a project like that. Ranbir’s character is quite controversial and problematic,” Farhan remarked.
Balancing Praise and Criticism
Despite his reservations about the film, Farhan was quick to praise Ranbir Kapoor’s performance. He acknowledged the dedication and passion that both Ranbir and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga brought to the project. “Ranbir’s acting was undoubtedly strong, and the background score was impressive,” Farhan said. He also commended Vanga for his commitment to the film, despite the criticism it faced.
However, Farhan made it clear that while he respected the artistic effort behind Animal, it wasn’t a film he would personally endorse. He emphasized the importance of filmmakers being able to express their vision but also stressed the responsibility that comes with it. “I don’t think we should tell filmmakers what they can or cannot create. Everyone has the right to share their perspective, but it’s also important to consider the impact of the stories we tell,” Farhan added.
Farhan Akhtar’s Philosophy on Filmmaking
Farhan Akhtar, who is currently working on his upcoming directorial project Don 3, featuring Ranveer Singh and Kiara Advani, elaborated on his philosophy of filmmaking. He believes in the freedom of expression but also in making choices that align with his personal values. “I would never make a film like Animal,” Farhan stated. He explained that while he respects the creative freedom of others, his own work would always reflect his beliefs and understanding of what’s important.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Farhan and Ranbir?
As Farhan Akhtar gears up for Don 3, fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment in the iconic franchise. Farhan’s commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences while staying true to his principles is evident in his work. Besides Don 3, he is exploring other projects that align with his vision of meaningful cinema.
On the other hand, Ranbir Kapoor is also busy with several upcoming projects. After the success and controversy of Animal, he is set to take on roles in films like Ramayana and Love and War. Additionally, there is much anticipation surrounding Animal 2, with fans eager to see how the story unfolds in the sequel.
‘Animal’ at the Box Office
Despite the mixed reactions, Animal was a significant success at the box office, earning around Rs 917 crore. The film’s bold narrative and Ranbir’s intense portrayal of Ranvijay struck a chord with many viewers, even as it sparked debates about its themes and characterizations. Ranbir’s chemistry with co-star Tripti Dimri was also widely appreciated, adding to the film’s appeal.
As both Farhan Akhtar and Ranbir Kapoor continue to make their mark in the film industry, their differing approaches to storytelling highlight the diverse perspectives that contribute to the richness of Indian cinema. Whether through the lens of a hard-hitting drama like Animal or the high-octane action of Don 3, these artists continue to shape the narrative of contemporary filmmaking.
