The release of the film ‘Animal’ has ignited a fierce debate on social media, with many viewers criticizing the movie for its perceived misogynistic undertones. The controversy centers around the characters played by Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, and their tumultuous on-screen relationship.
Critics of the film have taken issue with Ranbir Kapoor's character, who is depicted as deeply flawed. Conversely, Rashmika Mandanna's character has been praised by some for her decision to not accept Ranbir’s character after discovering his infidelity. However, the overall sentiment among many women is one of frustration, as the film seems to reinforce negative stereotypes about men.
A video clip from ‘Animal’ has been widely circulated on social media, depicting Ranbir Kapoor’s character cheating on Rashmika's character with another woman, played by Tripti Dimri. The caption accompanying the video read, "Remember: Nothing is scarier than trusting a man," reflecting a cynical view of relationships.
Responding to the viral post, Rashmika Mandanna offered a more balanced perspective. She wrote, "Correction: Trusting a stupid man is scary; There are a lot of good men also out there. Trusting them is special," followed by a love emoji. Her response suggests that while the film portrays certain negative aspects of relationships, it should not be seen as a representation of all men or real-life dynamics.
The intense reactions to ‘Animal’ highlight ongoing societal debates about gender roles and the representation of relationships in media. Rashmika Mandanna’s comment aims to mitigate the film’s negative portrayal of men, encouraging viewers to see the characters' actions as individual failings rather than a general statement about gender.
The controversy surrounding ‘Animal’ underscores the impact of cinema on public perception and the importance of nuanced portrayals of relationships. Rashmika Mandanna’s intervention serves as a reminder that while fictional narratives can stir emotions and debate, they do not necessarily reflect reality. Her call for viewers to distinguish between on-screen drama and real-life relationships resonates amid the broader discourse on trust and fidelity.
Correction : trusting a stupid man = scary.. there are a lot of good men also out there.. trusting those men = special. 🫶🏻
— Rashmika Mandanna (@iamRashmika) June 13, 2024