Ranbir Kapoor finds silver lining in Animal’s criticism: “Ignited healthy conversation on toxic masculinity”

Ranbir Kapoor’s latest film, Animal, has sparked heated discussions since its release in December 2023. The Sandeep Reddy Vanga-directed action drama, now streaming online, explores a dark and violent narrative centred on a troubled father-son relationship. While the film has received its share of criticism from a section of the audience, Kapoor finds merit in the controversy, seeing it as a catalyst for a crucial societal conversation.

In a recent Netflix video discussing Animal, Ranbir acknowledged the film’s negative reception. However, he highlighted the positive aspect of the debate it has ignited, stating, “There is a very healthy conversation that has started about toxic masculinity also, which is a great thing because cinema, at least, it starts a conversation.”

He further emphasized the importance of acknowledging societal issues through films, even if they are uncomfortable to portray: “If something is wrong, if you don’t show that it is wrong, and unless conversation starts in the society, we will never realise it.”

Ranbir’s co-star, Bobby Deol, echoed his sentiment, adding, “Storytelling is the reflection of society. It’s showing you what is happening in the society and there are so many things we don’t want to talk about.”

The film, featuring Anil Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, and Triptii Dimri alongside Ranbir and Deol, raked in over Rs 900 crores worldwide, proving its box office draw. It was recently released on Netflix.