‘Animal’: A Box Office Juggernaut Still Sparking Controversy

Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal,” a film that captivated audiences with its unique blend of
emotional depth and action-packed sequences, continues to generate buzz even after its December 2023 release. The Ranbir Kapoor-starrer proved to be a commercial behemoth, grossing over 900 crores at the box office despite its bold “A” certificate. However, the film has also ignited debates and discussions, with director Vanga himself actively engaging in online discourse.

Bhushan Kumar, the film’s producer, offers a fascinating perspective on this ongoing phenomenon. He acknowledges the persistent controversies surrounding “Animal,” stating, “Many debates keep happening about Animal. Even today, I see somebody or the other talking about the film.” Interestingly, Kumar views this as a positive development. He explains that the very act of discussion, even if critical or humorous, fuels renewed interest in the film, propelling it back onto the Netflix top 10 list. He even encourages the jokes and discussions, stating, “I am absolutely okay with the jokes and all the stuff.”

Kumar acknowledges Vanga’s discomfort with the ongoing debates, particularly the director’s tendency to actively engage in online responses. He reveals his advice to Vanga: “My director is not happy with the discussions going around the film, and he replies too much. I keep telling him not to bother much, and that all the debates are actually benefitting us.”

The film’s success is undeniable. “All said and done,” Kumar emphasizes, “Animal has collected 900 crores. It is a cult hit, and people are looking forward to watching Animal Park.” This cryptic reference points towards a potential sequel, “Animal Park,” which Vanga hinted at in the film’s closing moments. However, the project’s timeline remains unclear, dependent on Vanga’s completion of his upcoming film “Spirit” and Kapoor’s work on “Ramayan.”

One thing remains certain: “Animal” has left a lasting mark on the Indian film industry, both commercially and culturally. The debates it has sparked ensure that the film will continue to be a topic of conversation for some time to come.