'Animal' director says sequel to be 'darker, meaner' than first part: Indian media

Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the creative force behind the recent blockbuster Animal, has sent waves of anticipation through the film industry and among fans by dropping hints about the much-awaited sequel of the gritty offering. 

According to multiple Indian media reports, tentatively titled Animal Park, the filmmaker promises a narrative that is not only more intense and darker but also grander in scale, assuring audiences that the sequel will surpass its predecessor in every aspect.

During the promotional events for Animal, the filmmaker revealed in an interview with Telugu entertainment website idlebrain.com that he and Ranbir had discussed another "very dark" idea for a collaboration, hinting at an even deeper exploration of storytelling and characters. 

"By God's grace if Animal works, it will for sure, I will go deeper into storytelling and character exploration. Me and Ranbir have another idea to work together, it is very dark. We thought if this works, we should definitely dive into the darkness," the director shared, as reported by DNA India.

Animal, featuring the son of late superstar Rishi Kapoor, hit the screens on December 1 and despite facing initial criticism on social media, managed to open to packed theatres. The film's climax left audiences on the edge of their seats, tantalising them with the prospect of Animal Park and the emergence of even more formidable characters alongside Ranbir's compelling portrayal. Furthermore, with Animal already raking in impressive numbers at the box office, the path appears to be clear for the director to unfold Animal Park, thus expanding upon the cinematic universe he has carefully crafted.

Spoiler alert!

The climax of Animal was particularly noteworthy, featuring Ranbir's portrayal of the character Vijay, who exhibited a level of menace and ruthlessness that left a lasting impression. However, Sandeep teased audiences with the introduction of a bloodier and bulkier version of Vijay, named Aziz, played once again by Ranbir. In a surprising twist, Aziz, a professional butcher seeking revenge for his brother's death, undergoes plastic surgery to resemble Vijay, setting the stage for a showdown between the two characters.

As the end credits rolled, viewers were treated to a glimpse of Aziz, now indistinguishable from Vijay, entering a room with two butcher knives, posing the question to Tripti Dimri's Zoya if he looks like Vijay now. The scene unfolds in true cinematic fashion, with Aziz mercilessly dispatching two of Vijay's men, their blood splattering on his face, further heightening the anticipation for the sequel.

The text on screen during the climax, reading "Animal Park" along with "visit soon," serves as a strong indication that a sequel is in the works. If Animal Park comes to fruition, it promises a gripping showdown between Aziz and Vijay, both characters portrayed by the versatile Ranbir. The star, known for his versatility, had previously played a dual role in Shamshera, portraying both a father and a son. The concept of dual roles has been explored by other actors in Bollywood, with Shah Rukh Khan recently taking on a similar challenge in Jawan, where he played both father and son.

Sandeep, no stranger to controversy, had previously stirred discussions with the intense violence in Kabir Singh. He has promised an even more intense level of violence in Animal, making it one of the boldest and exceptionally violent films of recent times. The success of Animal has only fueled curiosity about Sandeep's next project and the possibility of a darker and more violent collaboration with Ranbir.

Alongside Ranbir, Animal features an ensemble cast including Anil Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Bobby Deol, and Triptii in supporting roles. As the excitement builds around Animal Park, fans can expect a larger-than-life continuation of the Animal narrative, promising a cinematic experience like never before.

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