Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol and Rashmika Mandanna.
Director: Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Plot: Animal explores the intricate bond between business mogul Balbir Singh and his son Ranvijay Singh. When tragedy strikes Balbir, Ranvijay seeks revenge against his rival, Abrar Haque, and makes a vow never to abandon his family. This commitment leads a violent gang war, intensifying the drama.
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review: Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for his bold statements, delivers on his claim to showcase a new level of brutality in Indian cinema. Animal roars onto the Bollywood scene with a promise of unparalleled violence, and it doesn’t disappoint. The film’s narrative kicks off with Ranvijay (Ranbir Kapoor) expressing his love for Rashmika, leading to her breaking off her marriage to be with him. The wealthy patriarch, Richest Man of the Country, Balbir Singh (Anil Kapoor), heads the Swastic Steels business empire, and the plot thickens as an internal threat emerges within the family, plotting murder for business gain.
Animal surprises with its versatility, seamlessly blending kickass action, romance, drama, and comedy. Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s direction and writing create a beautiful cinematic tapestry. The film delivers on its promise of action and violence, with the first half alone packing a punch with intense gunshots and dramatic sequences.
Performances
The heart of the story revolves around Ranbir Kapoor’s Ranvijay, a character defined by intense aggression and fierce determination. Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal is a masterclass, his eyes conveying emotions with a depth. This performance undeniably marks a peak in Ranbir Kapoor’s acting career, making this role one of the best roles that he had done!
Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of Geetanjali adds a layer of complexity to the film, showcasing her acting prowess. Bobby Doel, while delivering a nuanced performance, could have been given more screen time to further enchant the audience. Anil Kapoor’s presence as Balbir Singh is nothing short of excellent, contributing to the overall brilliance of the cast. The film’s casting deserves commendation, with each actor fitting seamlessly into their roles.
Tripti Dimri, in a brief appearance, leaves an indelible mark, captivating the audience with her magic. Saurabh Sachdeva and the supporting cast contribute significantly, bringing depth to their characters.
A special shout-out goes to the Maharashtrian character supplying guns in the first half. His presence adds a unique flavor, making the film a delightful experience for all the viewers.
What Doesn’t Work
The Storyline could have been stronger. The plot seems to be just an above average one. While the dialogues are a strong suit, the conversations between Balbir and Ranvijay may lack the compelling depth expected in such crucial moments. Additionally, some of Geetanjali’s dialogues may leave the audience scratching their heads.
Music
The soundtrack of Animal stands out as a remarkable element, with each track hitting the mark precisely. The musical compositions are exceptionally integrated into the film, elevating key moments and contributing to the overall cinematic experience. The tracks complement the narrative and additionally, enhance the emotional depth of the scenes. From intense action sequences to poignant emotional moments, the soundtrack of Animal is a genius craftsmanship behind its creation, adding a layer of beauty to the film’s overall impact.
Lastly, Animal emerges as a must-watch, offering a unique blend of love and violence. Ranbir Kapoor’s intense performance, coupled with stellar supporting cast contributions, makes it a cinematic chronicle worth experiencing. Animal will surely leave an impact on you for days after watching!
ps- If you’re a Maharashtrian, i bet the action sequence in the first half will be a treat for you!
-by Jeet Pasad