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Unmasking the Alpha – A Brutal Ballet of Revenge, Family Ties, and Moral Ambiguity

Dec 15, 2023 | Critique

Be it the story of Mahabharata or any other theme which revolves around human behavior on love and hate it is just behaving like an Animal. The movie proceeds to fight with the brothers with the help of the brothers.

Ranbir Kapoor’s intense and transformative performance looks award-worthy. The dark and complex family drama with the gripping storyline, with themes of violence and revenge, has intrigued some viewers. The film’s cinematography, background score, and action sequences are good for their technical prowess and visual impact.

However, the film’s graphic violence has disturbed and alienated many viewers, especially those sensitive to such content. The film’s non-linear narrative and recurring flashbacks emphasize the characters’ struggle to come to terms with their past and break free from its hold.

Despite the strong performances some of the characters are clearly underdeveloped

Abrar’s backstory, motivations, and inner world remain largely shrouded in mystery. This left viewers frustrated, especially considering the strong performance Deol delivers.

The film ultimately limits the scope of the female characters, subjecting them to violence and manipulation by male characters. They can be seen as stemming from male influence or trauma, diminishing their autonomy. The film’s director has defended his portrayal of female characters, arguing that it reflects the harsh realities of the world he’s depicting.

Unnecessary humor has been added in various places. The portrayal of women and the overall glorification of violence have drawn criticism for being regressive and potentially harmful.

The movie features excessive use of exaggeratedly large and powerful weapons, which can be unrealistic and potentially glamorize violence. The film’s world seems devoid of any functional or effective law enforcement, which can undermine the importance of the rule of law and societal structures.

The constant portrayal of smoking could be appealing to young audiences. However, for mature people, relying on smoking for character development can be seen as lazy and lacking in nuance.

I personally believe the term “alpha male” has its roots in animal behavior, where it refers to the dominant male in a pack. However, applying this concept directly to human behavior can be misleading, harmful and disrespectful. Human social dynamics are far more complex and have got lots of layers than those of animal packs.

Every character, including the protagonist, makes morally questionable choices driven by anger, pain, and a desire for revenge. This ambiguity challenges viewers to empathize with complex individuals and question their motivations.

The Fight Scene – My Interpretation

I’m not a very big fan of scenes which portray physical combat of characters. However the scene in the movie where Abrar and Ranvijay engage in a physical confrontation has lot of other things to say. One being deaf and the other mute, as balletic as it is brutal when they trade blows, not just with fists, but with ideologies. Their discord reflects a microcosm of a society at war with itself.

Deafened by dogma, blinded by belief, they clash like titans in a silent scream, their unspoken pleas swallowed by the roar of the mob. They are two sides of the same coin, forever locked in a tragic tango of misunderstanding.

The idea of individuals locked in conflict despite a genuine desire to connect highlights the tragic absurdity of societal divisions based on something as personal and often complex as religious belief.

It’s a commentary on the breakdown of communication and understanding, how entrenched positions and assumptions can create an impassable barrier even when faced with a shared humanity. This portrayal can be impactful and thought-provoking, urging viewers to question the lines that separate us and explore the possibility of bridging those gaps.

For me this concept is certainly rich with potential. It can resonate with audiences by prompting introspection on how we engage with those who hold different beliefs, and the importance of seeking common ground despite our differences.

The Animal doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of life, and one of the most striking is the paradox of fighting alongside your brothers against your brothers. It’s a powerful and complex portrayal of the contradictions that can exist within family and society. It throws the audience into a moral quagmire, forcing us to confront the messy truth that loyalty and betrayal can often coexist within the tightest bonds.

For me, the message in the story is the never-ending cycle of violence.

The film’s focus on family revenge and its devastating consequences could be seen as a commentary on the cyclical nature of violence and the futility of seeking vengeance.

The question is can individuals ever escape the influence of their family legacy and past traumas? Animal explores the challenges of overcoming a predetermined fate and the struggle to forge one’s own path in life.

Another highlight is when the protagonist desperately craves his father’s love and approval, but his father’s constant absence leaves him feeling neglected, unloved, and insecure. This emotional void fuels his rage and resentment throughout the film. The movie paints a stark picture of the negative consequences a father’s absence can have on a son.

The film somehow emphasizes the importance of healthy father-son relationships and the long-lasting impact such relationships can have on a child’s emotional, psychological, and even physical well-being.

You will agree that art is subjective, and what evokes strong emotions in one person may leave another indifferent. Overall, the general view for this movie is divided, with strong opinions favoring both its strengths and weaknesses. The film’s dark and violent theme, while appealing to some, has also turned off others.

However, the movie has already done a very good business. Ranbir Kapoor’s performance, however, seems to be a saving grace. If you’re considering watching Animal, be prepared for a potentially disturbing and thought-provoking experience, but also one that may offer insights into the complexities of human nature and the impact of our choices.

Are they successful in positioning Ranbir as the next superstar will likely depend on a combination of factors, including the film’s box office performance, critical and audience reception, and his future career choices.

 

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