Animal Review : “Animal,” helmed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, unleashes an overwhelming deluge of extremes – be it in length, violence, love, obsession, or toxicity. The narrative, a sickeningly violent father-son drama, seldom takes a pause in its relentless pursuit of shrill drama designed to evoke trauma.
The film introduces us to a cacophony of characters drowning in their own excesses. The protagonist, played by Ranbir Kapoor, exhibits a pathological sense of entitlement, resorting to extreme violence when his elder sister faces harassment. The movie unfolds into a litany of excuses for a protagonist desperately in need of psychiatric care.
While Ranbir Kapoor and Anil Kapoor deliver powerful performances, the film’s problematic narrative overshadows their efforts. The story revolves around a boy’s intense adoration for his wealthy industrialist father, spanning nearly three and a half hours. Unfortunately, “Animal” becomes an exhaustive assault on the senses, offering a relentless barrage of over-the-top drama.
The film seemingly normalizes the notion that a loving son can go berserk to protect his family, using it as an excuse for the protagonist’s boorish behavior. Ranbir Kapoor’s character spills blood, takes lives, and resorts to extreme measures upon uncovering a conspiracy against his family.
Even in matters of love, the protagonist displays a my-way-or-the-highway attitude, demanding allegiance rather than proposing marriage. The narrative lacks subtlety and nuance, portraying the protagonist as an aggressive and unapologetic force.
Despite the film’s exhausting length and lack of restraint, Ranbir Kapoor’s powerful performance and Anil Kapoor’s support are overshadowed by the film’s problematic narrative. “Animal” leaves the audience questioning the purpose behind its unending din and gratuitously gory action sequences.
If there’s a takeaway, it’s perhaps the background music, which features folksy tunes accompanying the violent action sequences. However, it’s unlikely that the music can redeem the film’s off-putting and tiresome overall experience. As the audience exits the theater, the film’s lasting impact seems to be far from a melodious note.
