Rajkummar Rao Supports Ranbir Kapoor's Film Animal

Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao has expressed his admiration for Ranbir Kapoor's controversial film, *Animal*, despite the criticism it has faced since its release. In a recent interview on Raj Shamani's podcast, Rao discussed the film's provocative themes and the rationale behind its title, asserting that the protagonist's characterization as an "animal" is intentional and reflective of the narrative's darker elements. He emphasized that the filmmaker's choice of title is not meant to portray an idealized hero but rather to highlight the flawed nature of the character. Rao drew parallels between *Animal* and Shah Rukh Khan's iconic film *Devdas*, noting that both films depict flawed protagonists. He pointed out that while *Devdas* illustrates the consequences of living a life of excess and moral ambiguity, *Animal* similarly explores the darker aspects of human nature. This perspective comes in the wake of significant backlash against *Animal*, with critics labeling it as toxic and misogynistic. The film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, has sparked considerable debate within the film industry and among audiences since its release in December 2023. Despite the controversy, Rao's comments suggest a nuanced understanding of the film's artistic intentions, inviting viewers to engage with its themes critically. Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao is enjoying the success of his latest project, *Stree 2*, which has become a blockbuster, grossing over Rs 400 crore globally. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Shraddha Kapoor and Pankaj Tripathi, and continues to perform well at the box office.