Animal Review: Submissive and Alpha Traits in a Man’s World: Choose It or Lose It, It’s Your Call
In the Cinema World, where stories oscillate between the mundane and the extraordinary, Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal” (2023) emerges as a film that not only challenges the boundaries of conventional storytelling but also delves deep into the complex labyrinth of human relationships and vengeance. As a seasoned movie critic, this cinematic journey captivated, disturbed, and profoundly moved me.
Plot (Story Arc and Plausibility)
“Animal” is a tale of transformation and tumultuous relationships, primarily between a son and his father. The plot intricately weaves through the emotional and psychological metamorphosis of the protagonist, played with a visceral intensity by Ranbir Kapoor. The narrative’s plausibility lies in its raw and unfiltered portrayal of human emotions, making the characters’ journey believable and deeply resonant.
Attraction (Premise & Entertainment Value)
The film’s premise is its strongest suit. It’s not just a story; it’s an experience that drags you into its world. The entertainment value of “Animal” is its ability to keep the audience engaged with its thrilling action and emotional drama.
Theme (Identity & Depth)
Vanga continues his tradition of exploring complex themes. “Animal” is a stark portrayal of the darker side of human nature, mirroring the title’s implication. The film’s exploration of identity, especially in the context of familial bonds and vengeance, adds a profound depth to the narrative.
Acting (Characters & Performance)
Ranbir Kapoor delivers what might be his career’s best performance, embodying the character’s turmoil and transformation with a finesse that is both haunting and captivating. As the father, Anil Kapoor matches this intensity, bringing a layered performance that adds to the film’s emotional core. Though overshadowed at times, the rest of the cast holds their own, contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Dialogue (Storytelling & Context)
The dialogues in “Animal” are sharp, often piercing through the veneer of normalcy to reveal the characters’ deepest fears and desires. These dialogues enhance the storytelling, providing context and depth to the narrative and making the characters’ journey more relatable and impactful.
Cinematography (Visual Language & Lighting, Setting, and Wardrobe)
The cinematography of “Animal” is a visual treat. The use of lighting, the meticulously chosen settings, and the characters’ wardrobe all contribute to the film’s gritty and raw aesthetic. The visual language of the film is as much a narrative tool as the script, adding layers to the storytelling.
Editing (Pace & Effects)
The editing is crisp, maintaining a pace that keeps the audience engaged without overwhelming them. The film executes the back-and-forth switching between scenes precisely, ensuring it does not disrupt the narrative flow. The effects, especially in the more intense scenes, are used judiciously, enhancing the film’s impact without overshadowing its narrative.
Soundtrack (Sound Design & Film Score)
The sound design in “Animal” is noteworthy. The fluctuating sound decibels, at times, create an immersive experience that is both unsettling and captivating. The film score, situational and sometimes unexpected, complements the narrative beautifully, adding layer of emotional depth to the film.
Directing (Vision & Execution)
Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s direction is the glue that holds “Animal” together. He executes his vision for the film with a precision that speaks of his mastery. Vanga balances the film’s intense themes with its need to entertain, creating a movie that is as thought-provoking as it is engaging.
The “It” Factor (One-of-a-Kind & Transcendent)
“Animal” has an ‘It’ factor that sets it apart. It’s a film that doesn’t just tell a story; it makes you feel it. The movie transcends the usual tropes of revenge dramas, offering a unique cinematic experience that is both disturbing and enlightening.
Endnote
“Animal” is a film that will trigger a range of emotions and challenge your perceptions. Its high and low-volume sounds, action-packed sequences, and emotionally charged narrative make for an exceedingly good entertainment value. However, viewing it as a fictional portrayal is essential, distinct from personal life experiences.
In a world where the dichotomy of submissive and alpha traits often defines a man’s journey, “Animal” boldly throws down the gauntlet with its underlying message: “Submissive and Alpha Traits in a Man’s World: Choose it or lose it, it’s your call.” This line encapsulates the essence of the film’s exploration of identity and choice in the face of societal norms and expectations.
To put it, “Animal” is a cinematic masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of storytelling, acting, and filmmaking. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, a testament to the power of cinema to evoke, provoke, and resonate.
Author : Hawrry Bhattarai
