Bollywood’s recent blockbuster, “Animal,” starring Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, has sparked a controversy as renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed strong concerns about the societal impact of the film. However, filmmaker Sanjay Gupta has come forward to support Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s directorial debut, vehemently disagreeing with Akhtar’s views.

Released to both commercial success and critical scrutiny, “Animal” received mixed reviews from film critics and notable personalities within the industry. Javed Akhtar, in a recent appearance at the Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival, condemned the film, labeling it as dangerous to society. He specifically highlighted scenes where the lead actor asks a woman to lick his shoes and glorifies slapping a partner, expressing alarm over the audience’s positive reception of such content.

In response to Akhtar’s critique, Sanjay Gupta, during a conversation with Siddharth Kannan, defended “Animal” and challenged Akhtar’s perspective on societal changes. Gupta argued that society has evolved over the years, emphasizing the transformation in people’s attitudes, media dynamics, and societal norms. He maintained that blaming a film for societal changes or vice versa is not justifiable, as we can’t revert to the past norms. Gupta urged Akhtar to acknowledge the evolving reality and refrain from viewing the world through rose-tinted glasses.

Gupta’s support for “Animal” aligns with other industry figures like Anurag Kashyap, who previously praised the film, stating that it had completely blown away his mind. Furthermore, Gupta revealed in the interview that elements of this movie have inspired his upcoming projects. Whenever faced with a creative block, he turns to Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s directorial style for inspiration.

Animal Movie Controversy

The controversy surrounding “Animal” has sparked a broader conversation within the film industry, highlighting the divide between traditional and contemporary perspectives on cinematic expression. While critics like Javed Akhtar express concerns about the impact on societal values, supporters like Sanjay Gupta and Anurag Kashyap argue that films like “Animal” reflect the evolving nature of society and should not be held responsible for broader social changes.

As the debate continues, “Animal” remains a significant topic of discussion within the entertainment industry, showcasing the diverse opinions and perspectives that shape the narrative surrounding modern cinema.