18 December 2023, Mumbai: Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal,” featuring the dynamic duo of Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika, continues its mesmerizing roar at the global box office. On its 17th day, the film witnessed an upswing in daily collections, reaching an impressive ₹15.00 crore net in India. Remarkably, “Animal” has now ascended to the summit, securing its position as the highest-grossing Hindi film not only in its native India but also across the distant lands of Canada and Australia. The movie’s global collection now stands at a staggering ₹817.36 crore.
Animal Unprecedented Milestones in India
Breaking down the domestic triumph, early reports from sacnilk.com unveil that “Animal” has gracefully crossed the ₹500 crore mark in India, boasting a net collection of ₹512.94 crore. As the second week concluded, the film had accrued ₹139.26 crore net, marking a 58.75% dip from its explosive first-week earnings. Within this domestic success, the Hindi market played a pivotal role, contributing a substantial ₹130.73 crore to the cumulative collection. This accomplishment solidifies “Animal” as one of the five All-Time Blockbusters of 2023, standing alongside cinematic giants such as “The Kerala Story,” “Gadar 2,” “Pathaan,” and “Jawan.”
Australia Acknowledge ‘Animal’s’ Dominance
The resonance of “Animal” extends far beyond Indian shores, with Bhadrakali Pictures reporting an astounding feat – the film’s designation as the highest-grossing Hindi film in Canada and Australia. This international recognition underscores the film’s universal appeal, captivating audiences and breaking barriers across diverse cultural landscapes. As the numbers climb, “Animal” stands not only as a domestic powerhouse but as a global phenomenon, transcending linguistic boundaries and conquering hearts worldwide.
Controversies Surrounding ‘Animal’
“Animal” has not been immune to the dual forces of critical acclaim and controversy. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Anil Kapoor, and Rashmika Mandanna, the film encountered a diverse range of responses upon its release. While some lauded its cinematic prowess, a segment of critics and viewers criticized it for perceived misogyny and graphic violence. This mixed reception adds an intriguing layer to the film’s narrative, sparking conversations about the delicate balance between artistic expression and societal sensitivities.
Beyond ‘Animal’
In the dynamic landscape of Indian cinema, “Animal” faces competition from Meghna Gulzar’s “Sam Bahadur.” Both films are vying for audience attention and critical acclaim, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of narratives on the big screen. Beyond the box office clash, “Animal” found itself echoing in the hallowed halls of Parliament, where a Congress MP raised concerns over its portrayal of violence.
By Yashika Desai