Ranbir Kapoor's 'Animal' Review: A Blend of Realism and Entertainment

I recently watched Ranbir Kapoor's latest movie, Animal, and though it's not a blockbuster in the usual sense, it offers an immensely entertaining experience that takes a critical look at societal norms and expectations. This review aims to provide an honest, albeit subjective, perspective on the film, its performances, and its overall impact.

Overview and Impression

The movie premiered on October 5, and despite its impressive runtime of 3 hours and 21 minutes, I found it enjoyable for a one-time watch. Ranbir Kapoor's performance sets a high standard, feeling incredibly real and the action sequences are well-executed. However, the long runtime can be daunting, especially for intervals when attention may wander. The movie's raw, unfiltered nature is a significant selling point, but whether it's worth sitting through that long depends on your personal tolerance for real-world issues presented in the context of fiction.

What I Liked

The Excellent Background Music Score

The background music score is one of the standout elements of the film. It adds to the overall atmosphere, enhancing the emotional impact of the plot and characters. The absence of typical Bollywood dance numbers is refreshing and aligns with the film's gritty and real-world approach. The finale song is particularly memorable, staying stuck in my head even after the movie's conclusion. The Iranian tune, in particular, has a charm that can make your legs move involuntarily.

Lord Bobby Winning Hearts

The character of Lord Bobby, played by Bobby Deol, is a memorable aspect of the film. His entry song is still fresh in my mind, and the tune has a timeless appeal. Moreover, his on-screen chemistry and performances are commendable. The film might be filled with real-world issues, but there are moments of light-heartedness that make it enjoyable.

Ranbir Kapoor's Peak Performance

Ranbir Kapoor, as the protagonist, delivers a highly compelling and nuanced performance. His roles often set a benchmark for the industry, and this movie is no exception. His believable portrayal of a character who grapples with the realities of life is a significant highlight.

What I Disliked

The Last Butcher Scene

The final butcher scene certainly raises the stakes and provides an intense climax to the movie. However, there could have been improvements in the storytelling and visual effects to make it even more impactful. A more sophisticated approach to conveying the message could have enhanced the emotional impact.

Rashmika's Dialogue Delivery

Rashmika's dialogue delivery is often inaudible, particularly in one scene where her crying during a hospital setting doesn't add to the emotional impact. This casts a shadow on the believability of her character's moments of vulnerability. Additionally, the "big pelvis" dialogue, while reflecting some historical and evolutionary facts, comes across as insensitive and crude. The need for a more tactful and respectful portrayal of such dialogue is essential.

Less Screen Time for Bobby Deol

The less screen time allotted to Bobby Deol feels slightly jarring, reinforcing the need for better stage management to ensure all characters get the necessary spotlight. With a longer runtime, there is a premium on delivering value to each character and plot thread.

The Excess Use of

Another aspect worth mentioning is the excessive use of which, while not a plot element, can disrupt the narrative flow. It's essential to maintain a balance between hardcore execution and smooth storytelling.

Overall Conclusion

In conclusion, while the movie's length and certain scenes might be dense, the performances and thematic depth outweigh these issues. Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal and the movie's underlying message about human evolution and societal expectations make it a worthwhile watch from an entertainment perspective.

Note: Remember, this film is a movie, not real life. Approach the narrative with a mindset that appreciates the fictional nature of the content. If viewing realistically, engaging with legal and ethical issues might prove problematic.

Final Verdict

Just keep in mind that it's an ENTERTAINMENT and not a REAL LIFE situation. If viewed as a piece of fiction, one is more likely to enjoy the film for its ambitious storytelling and real-world themes rather than its shortcomings.