Mrunal Thakur has defended actor Ranbir Kapoor, who took on the role of a fierce and unforgiving character in the 2023 film Animal directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Mrunal, during an interaction with the media at the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) Utsavam 2024 in Abu Dhabi, pointed out that the same actor has also played Barfi in the 2012 movie.
Mrunal stated, “Let’s not forget that Ranbir is also the actor who played Barfi. Why can’t we celebrate the diversity in his films and the fact that he can play both Barfi and Animal so well.”
Ranbir portrayed Ranvijay Singh Balbir in the action thriller film, Animal, which also included Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna and Triptii Dimri. The film has been under fire for its violent scenes, which glorify misogyny and toxic masculinity. It not only did well financially, both nationally and overseas, but also grossed ₹917 crore.
Mrunal responded to the criticism Animal encountered then. She pointed out, “I think we should totally watch the movie for the character they are. We also forget that films are made for entertainment. That’s why it’s called Animal, it’s not called Devata. I don’t know, it’s pure logic. It’s a debatable question, and a lot of people will want to have my opinion. Having said that I’m really proud to be a part of Indian cinema.”
Meanwhile, on the work front, Mrunal will be next seen alongside Ajay Devgn in Son of Sardaar 2.
