Ranbir Kapoor’s 2023 film Animal made waves at the box office with its gripping action and intense performances. However, it also stirred controversy, especially for a particular scene that has drawn significant criticism.
Notably, screenwriter Javed Akhtar has reflected on the film’s contentious moments which include the infamous ‘Lick my shoe’ scene. He has shared his views on the portrayal of the angry young man in contemporary cinema.
Javed Akhtar Once Again Slams Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal
During a recent chat with We Are Yuvaa, Akhtar was asked about the enduring presence of the angry young man in South Indian films compared to their North Indian counterparts.
He replied, “Wahan (in South) bhi dekhiye woh ultimately apna caricature ban raha hai.” (Even in the South, these characters are becoming caricatures of themselves.)
Akhtar called out the controversial scene in Animal, where Kapoor’s character demands Triptii Dimri’s Zoya to lick his shoe to prove her love. Akhtar critiqued this moment, stating, “Ab woh man agar hai toh woh hai jiska joota ek aurat chaate. Toh woh angry young man ka ya strong man ka caricature banna shuru ho chuka hai.”
He suggested that this scene reflects a degrading portrayal of the ‘angry young man’ trope, turning it into a mere caricature.
On being asked if he has watched Animal, his response was NO. He questioned why should he watch the film. Akhtar explained that he had no particular reason to see the film, as he had already heard about the controversial scene and read about it in the news. “I knew the movie featured slaps and other such things,” he added, indicating that he was already familiar with its contentious elements without having to view the film.
About The Film
Animal was directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga who gained fame with Kabir Singh. It boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Rashmika Mandanna, Triptii Dimri, Bobby Deol, Anil Kapoor, Shakti Kapoor, and Prem Chopra.
Released in theatres on December 1, 2023, the film was both a commercial success and a subject of debate, particularly for its bold and provocative scenes.
(Also read: Javed Akhtar Calls The Blockbuster Success of Animal ‘dangerous’ For Society; Onus is on the audience)
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