“Animal” is a gripping drama that delves into the intricate dynamics of a father-son relationship, brought to life through the stellar performance of Ranbir Kapoor as Ranvijay Singh. The film commences with Ranvijay’s unwavering admiration for his industrialist father, depicting the son’s relentless quest to save his father from a brutal attack, thus catalyzing a profound realization in the father about the missed opportunities with his son.
Plot Overview
Ranbir Kapoor, in a nuanced portrayal, breathes life into the devoted son character, navigating the multifaceted shades of his role with finesse. While Rashmika Mandanna’s depiction of Geethanjali is grounded and complementary, the film admirably avoids the typical romantic subplot, giving her character significant on-screen presence.
Directorial Execution
Directed by Sandeep Vanga, known for his previous works like ‘Arjun Reddy’ and ‘Kabir Singh,’ “Animal” takes a different turn by centering on the father-son relationship. The film’s opening sequences, set in black and white, grip the audience’s attention, setting the tone for the narrative. The portrayal of family conflicts and the protagonist’s intensity effectively draws viewers in, despite moments feeling like a setup for upcoming action sequences.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The film’s first half is engaging, featuring a captivating interval action sequence complemented by a vibrant background score, offering a refreshing cinematic experience. However, the second half struggles due to the stretched revenge plot, resulting in the inclusion of unnecessary segments that dilute the essence of the story. Scenes portraying Ranbir’s physical transformation and certain bold sequences appear forced, disrupting the coherence of the main narrative.
Performance by Supporting Cast
Anil Kapoor shines among the talented supporting cast, while Bobby Deol’s impact feels limited to the latter part of the film. Tripti Dimri’s role lacks depth, and other supporting actors fulfill their roles adequately without significant impact.
Technical Aspects
The music, despite its quality, lacks visual appeal on-screen, contributing to the film’s extended duration. Nevertheless, the background score by Harshavardhan Rameshwar enhances key scenes, and the cinematography by Amit Roy aligns well with contemporary standards.
High Points and Criticisms
The movie excels in showcasing emotions, Ranbir’s performance, and the interval action sequences. However, it suffers from an overextended length, an underdeveloped second half, and exaggerated bold scenes lacking purpose.
Verdict
“Animal” offers a captivating first half but falters in maintaining its momentum, making it a watchable option for those familiar with the director’s style. However, it’s advised to approach the film with moderated expectations.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Note: Despite its flaws, “Animal” is worth a watch for its compelling performances and engaging initial sequences.