“Analyzing ‘Animal’: From Viral Madness to Controversial Brilliance”
In a recent interview, director Sandeep Reddy Vanga expressed astonishment at the viral success of his film, “Animal,” just a month after its release. The Ranbir Kapoor-starrer has indeed become one of the most talked-about films of 2023, making waves with its music, dialogues, and action sequences. However, the movie has also faced scrutiny for its controversial content, characterized by a misogynistic tone and gratuitous violence.
While I missed the theatrical experience, the delayed viewing on Netflix allowed for a detached, objective observation of “Animal.” The film’s viral moments had already inundated social media, diluting the impact of its controversial scenes. This unique viewing perspective led me to reflect on the director’s claim that he never anticipated the film’s virality, especially considering his meticulous focus on crafting moments designed for social media traction.
Throughout “Animal,” the narrative takes a backseat as Sandeep orchestrates extraordinary and sometimes outlandish sequences tailored for virality. The protagonist, played by Ranbir Kapoor, portrays an unhinged and psychotic character named Ranvijay, engaging in erratic behavior without apparent reasons. From bringing a gun to college to proposing to a girl based on her potential to bear healthy babies, the character’s actions verge on the extreme. The film unfolds with Ranvijay making vows, issuing bizarre proposals, and celebrating his stubbornness by walking naked in his garden – all calculated to generate attention.
As “Animal” walks the fine line between madness and brilliance, it prompts a closer look at the director’s intent and the broader implications of crafting content for virality. The film’s success lies not only in its narrative but also in the strategic deployment of moments designed to provoke discussion, sparking debates on social issues and cinematic choices.
In essence, “Animal” goes beyond a conventional cinematic experience, transcending into a realm of controversial brilliance that forces audiences to confront societal norms and the impact of virality in contemporary storytelling.**
