Ranbir Kapoor accepts Animal criticism, mentions creativity and responsible cinema

Actor Ranbir Kapoor answered a question about starring in a violent film like Animal, and if actors should make responsible choices in cinema. He was speaking during a special session at IFFI Goa.

In Short

• Ranbir Kapoor addressed criticism around violence in Animal
• He emphasised artistes' social responsibility in cinema
• The actor also expressed his desire to explore different genres and characters

Actor Ranbir Kapoor addressed the criticism around the glorification of violence in his last film Animal. He stressed the importance of social responsibility as an artiste, but also mentioned how he wants to dabble into different genres. The actor was speaking at the centenary celebration of Raj Kapoor at the 50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. When an attendee mentioned how contemporary cinema today glorifies violence, something that was not a trend in his grandfather’s era, Ranbir admitted to the same and gave an explanation. He was also asked about the responsibility of artistes, given cinema is known to influence society.

The 42-year-old said, "I completely agree with your opinion. As actors, it is our responsibility to bring movies that make a positive impact on society." In the same breath, he added that the actors also crave to venture into untapped genres and characters.

"As an actor, it's important for me to dabble in different genres and characters, and play varied roles," he shared, highlighting how a balance is needed with respect to creative freedom and responsible cinema.

While conversing with veteran film-maker Rahul Rawail on the stage, he also admitted that he has been toying with the idea of working on a biography of Raj Kapoor. "I have thought about it a lot. I have spoken to a lot of people about it, I have spoken to various filmmakers, Mr. Bhansali, having a take on how to make a film on Mr. Raj Kapoor's life," Ranbir said.

However, he went on to mention that the idea is difficult to execute given it will require honest showcasing, and the highs and lows of his grandfather's life, which his family may not like.

"You see, a biopic is not something where you just highlight the success factor or the highs in a person's life, you truly have to portray someone's life honestly, showing the lows, showing the struggles and the relationship dynamics. Most of these things, I don't know if my family will agree to show this side of Mr. Raj Kapoor. But, I definitely think it will make a great movie," he elaborated.

To mark the occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of Raj Kapoor, Ranbir announced a special film festival on the same platform, where restored films of the celebrated filmmaker would be re-released across the country.