Ranbir Kapoor's 'Animal' Raises Questions on the 'Alpha Male' Phenomenon

The cinematic landscape was recently graced by the release of "Animal," a film that made its debut on December 1, captivating audiences and sparking extensive discussions. Beyond its remarkable box office success, the portrayal of Ranbir Kapoor's character in the film has become a focal point of conversation. Despite surpassing the 550-crore mark in a short period, the film has not escaped the critical scrutiny of those examining it through a social lens.

Ranbir Kapoor's Impactful Role:

Mind blowing background music beet #AnimalTheFilm #AnimalBoxOffice pic.twitter.com/dHJcNHEpjZ

— Somu Shaikh (@SomuShaikh33158) December 6, 2023

At the heart of the discussions surrounding "Animal" is the commanding role played by Ranbir Kapoor, particularly in his interactions with co-star Rashmika Mandanna. Some viewers express concerns about the potential adverse effects of such portrayals on the younger audience. As the film unfolds, it delves into the complexities of paternal affection, with Kapoor's character seeking love and respect but finding neither.

The Rise of the 'Alpha Male':

@imvangasandeep showed 101 reasons not to select Toxic Alpha, still feminists saying #Animal is a toxic movie. Hypocrisy everywhere....#RanbirKapoor𓃵 #AnimalPark #AnimalReview #AnimalBoxOffice pic.twitter.com/pZaTooCR2C

— Subha (@Subha_The_Luck) December 5, 2023

Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for crafting blockbusters like "Kabir Singh," takes the reins of "Animal," presenting Ranbir Kapoor in a rugged and formidable appearance. The term 'Alpha Male' gains prominence in the narrative, leading to significant post-release discourse. To fully understand its implications, let's explore the definition of 'Alpha Male' across various dictionaries and trace its historical roots.

Decoding the Meaning:

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, an 'Alpha Male' is the most successful and powerful individual within a group. As "Animal" unfolds scenes and characters that prompt inquiries, the term takes center stage during a pivotal moment. Kapoor's character labels himself as an 'Alpha Male,' showcasing qualities of dominance, control, and authority.

Historical Roots:

The term 'Alpha Male' emerged after the 1960s, initially applied to describe the behavior of powerful individuals in non-human contexts. It was later extended to humans, representing someone seeking to govern every situation and maintain control over those around them. This portrayal raises questions about the potential adverse implications of such dominance.

Kabir Singh's Legacy:

Sandeep Reddy Vanga's previous film, "Kabir Singh," also featured an 'Alpha Male' character portrayed by Shahid Kapoor. In both films, the characters exhibit dominance and determination, though "Animal" adds the layer of yearning for paternal affection. The exploration of such character dynamics raises intriguing parallels and distinctions.

Box Office Triumph:

Despite the controversies and discussions, "Animal" has resonated positively at the box office. The film consistently performed well, surpassing the 500-crore mark globally within seven days of its release. Ranbir Kapoor leads a stellar cast, with Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, and Trupti Dimri contributing to the film's success.

- PTC PUNJABI