Recently, filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga opened up about the mixed reception to his 2023 film Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor. The movie, which stirred significant controversy due to its bold themes and depiction of violence, left Vanga reflecting on how the industry and audiences responded to it. While the film raked in massive box office numbers, it also faced backlash from critics and viewers who found its content problematic. Interestingly, Vanga pointed out a clear divide in how the criticism was directed – mostly at him, while Ranbir, the film’s lead, seemed to escape the brunt of it.
In a candid interview with Komal Nahta, Vanga addressed this disparity, saying, “The film industry slammed Animal, but they showered praise on Ranbir Kapoor. I’m not jealous of him, but there’s a pattern here—when they don’t like a film, they target the director and spare the actors.” He went on to elaborate that despite the flak he received, he harbors no resentment toward Ranbir. “I’m genuinely happy for him. He got all the love for Animal, and I took the heat,” Vanga added, acknowledging the actor’s widespread acclaim for his performance as the intense, troubled protagonist.
“Film related people criticized Animal but not Ranbir’s Performance because they want to work with Ranbir”
— Sandeep Reddy Vangapic.twitter.com/0frZuVMo7v
— Bob (@its_Isshant) February 25, 2025
The filmmaker also noted that Ranbir’s contribution to the movie was celebrated, while he faced the lion’s share of disapproval. “Ranbir Kapoor didn’t get criticism for Animal. I’m not jealous, though – it’s just an observation,” Vanga said, emphasizing that he doesn’t begrudge the actor’s success. He further explained how this dynamic isn’t new in the film world: directors often become the lightning rod for a project’s controversies, while actors tend to walk away with accolades.
“People who criticized very badly, film related people, everybody said Ranbir was brilliant. Main Ranbir se jealous nahi hoon, lekin point yeh hai ki ‘Ranbir was brilliant but the writer director was…’ Main yeh disparity samajh nahi paa raha hoon. Yeh dikhata hai ki sabko Ranbir ke saath kaam karna hai, isliye director pe gussa nikalna zyada aasaan hai,” he remarked.
new sandeep reddy vanga podcast will drop this saturday, on 1st march. pic.twitter.com/FknRtqYXn9
— Prayas. (@prayasfilms) February 25, 2025
Released in December 2023, Animal became one of the year’s biggest hits, grossing over ₹900 crore globally. However, its graphic violence and perceived glorification of toxic masculinity sparked debates that continue to follow the film. Vanga, known for his unapologetic storytelling style since his debut with Arjun Reddy, stood by his creative choices, even as they drew ire. “I faced a lot of criticism, but Ranbir? He got all the love,” Vanga reiterated, highlighting the contrast once more.
Despite the polarized reactions, Vanga remains focused on his work. He’s currently preparing for his next project, Spirit, which will also star Prabhas, signaling that he’s undeterred by the noise surrounding Animal. For now, he seems content to let Ranbir bask in the praise while he shoulders the weight of the film’s divisive legacy.
See Also: Himesh Reshammiya Comments On Similarities Between Badass Ravikumar & Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal: ‘Koi Problem…’