Ranbir Kapoor recently addressed the controversy surrounding his film Animal, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, which stirred debates over its portrayal of violence and certain scenes depicting women unfavorably. Animal, released last year, was a major box-office success, garnering substantial collections and appreciation for its intense storytelling. However, some film industry critics and audiences expressed discomfort over the movie’s violent content and certain scenes that appeared to portray women in a less-than-positive light. Speaking on this at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, Kapoor shared his views on the movie and its reception.
“While I understand and respect everyone’s opinions on Animal, it’s essential for actors to explore diverse characters and stories,” said Kapoor, acknowledging the importance of meeting audience expectations while promoting new and challenging themes in cinema. Kapoor stressed the responsibility of actors to bring innovative content to the screen, which allows for growth and versatility in their careers. “The only way we as actors grow is by embracing varied roles,” he added.
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At the IFFI platform, Kapoor also discussed the significance of preserving Bollywood’s legacy and making legendary films accessible to younger generations. To this end, he announced a special film festival scheduled for December 13-15, where classic works of his grandfather, legendary actor Raj Kapoor, will be showcased across India. Kapoor noted that, at times, younger actors are unaware of these film icons’ contributions. He humorously shared an anecdote about his wife, actress Alia Bhatt, who admitted not knowing much about legendary Bollywood singer and actor Kishore Kumar when they first met. Kapoor expressed his commitment to ensuring that the modern generation does not forget the icons who laid the foundation of Indian cinema.
The ongoing IFFI, held in Panaji, Goa, is taking place from November 20 to November 28 and is graced by many prominent figures in the Indian film industry. During this festival, various celebrities and industry veterans, including actress and National Commission for Women member Khushboo, celebrated director Mani Ratnam, and actress Nithya Menen, have shared their thoughts in engaging panel discussions and interviews.
Ranbir Kapoor’s statements come as a defense of creative freedom, emphasizing that art often pushes boundaries to provoke thought, challenge norms, and inspire dialogue. His candid reflections on both Animal and Bollywood’s enduring legacy highlight his commitment to progressive storytelling and respect for cinema’s heritage, hoping to bridge past cinematic icons with contemporary audiences through events like these film festivals.
