Farhan Akhtar’s Reaction to Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Animal’
Farhan Akhtar recently expressed his thoughts on the film ‘Animal’, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Ranbir Kapoor. Released in 2023, ‘Animal’ stirred mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike. While some praised Ranbir’s powerful performance, others criticized the film as being misogynistic and problematic. Let’s delve deeper into Farhan’s views on this controversial film.
Overview of ‘Animal’
‘Animal’ features Ranbir Kapoor in a compelling role, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Despite receiving a mix of reviews, the film became a significant box office success, grossing nearly ₹917 crores. This soaring revenue, alongside Ranbir’s performance, kept audiences engaged, even as the film faced accusations regarding its portrayal of women and violence.
Farhan’s Critique of ‘Animal’
During a recent interview with Faye D’Souza, Farhan Akhtar stated that ‘Animal’ did not resonate with him. While he acknowledged the commendable background score and praised Ranbir’s acting, he expressed concern over the troubling messages emanating from the film’s narrative. According to Farhan, he would not recommend the film to others, as he feels it lacks elements that warrant watching.
Controversial Themes in the Film
Farhan described Ranbir’s character as ‘problematic’, reflecting on how certain cinematic portrayals can influence societal perceptions. He emphasized that while creativity should have no bounds, the responsibility of the messages conveyed in films cannot be overlooked. Farhan remarked that he could never create a project akin to ‘Animal’, as it posed ethical dilemmas he couldn’t support.
Freedom of Artistic Expression
Despite his criticism, Farhan made it clear that he respects the creative freedom of filmmakers. He believes in the importance of every individual’s right to create and express opinions without facing censorship. He stated, “I will never tell another filmmaker or writer that they shouldn’t create a particular film. Everyone has their point of view, and that diversity is what enriches storytelling.”
Farhan Akhtar’s Current and Upcoming Projects
On the professional front, Farhan Akhtar is gearing up to direct ‘Don 3’, which will feature Ranveer Singh and Kiara Advani. He is currently in search of a robust cast to complement the lead roles. Meanwhile, Ranbir Kapoor is busy with several upcoming projects, including ‘Ramayana’ and ‘Love and War’, alongside the eagerly awaited ‘Animal Park’.
Conclusion
‘Animal’ has ignited discussions about the responsibilities of filmmakers and the implications of cinematic narratives in contemporary society. While it succeeded at the box office and gained a following for its performances, the controversies surrounding its themes necessitate a dialogue about the portrayal of characters and messages in the film industry. As fans eagerly await potential sequels, the conversation initiated by ‘Animal’ is likely to continue, underscoring the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.
