Bollywood luminary Ranbir Kapoor, celebrated for his chocolate-boy charm, and the nation's heartthrob Rashmika Mandanna are poised to grace the silver screen in 'Animal,' scheduled for release on December 1, 2023. Under the direction of the illustrious Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for 'Arjun Reddy' and 'Kabir Singh,' the film has generated immense anticipation, showcasing intense and violent elements in its teaser and trailer.

As the trio - Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Ranbir Kapoor, and Rashmika -embarks on a nationwide promotional journey, the director took a moment to share insights into 'Animal' and shed light on his future projects during media interactions.

How is your transition from Tollywood to Bollywood?

Embarking on the journey to Bollywood has proven to be an exhilarating adventure.

How is it working with stars like Shahid Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor in movies like 'Kabir Singh' and 'Animal'?

Collaborating with Shahid Kapoor initially and later with Ranbir Kapoor in 'Animal' has been an enriching learning experience. Despite being a prominent star, Ranbir Kapoor exhibits remarkable down-to-earth humility.

Your first film, 'Arjun Reddy,' is a love story. 'Animal' seems to highlight between a father and son. Can you share insights?

Certainly, 'Animal' unfolds as a compelling love story, delving into the intricate dynamics between a father and son. This family drama skillfully navigates the emotional terrain, portraying the depths one is willing to traverse for the sake of family, encapsulating a poignant narrative.

Both Arjun Reddy and ‘Animal’ exude intense emotions. Are there similarities, and how do you balance emotion and intensity in character design?

Indeed, while there might be some similarities, it's crucial to highlight that the storylines and characters in 'Animal' are completely unique. The driving force behind emotional intensity in 'Animal' is authenticity. Characters that authentically convey intense emotions have the power to breathe life into the narrative and captivate audiences, making the viewing experience rich and compelling.

The trailer hints at a strong emotional impact. Does the film lean more towards emotion or violence, or is there a harmonious balance?

'Animal' adeptly navigates the terrain between emotion and violence, sustaining a natural equilibrium that spans the entirety of the film. This delicate balance enhances the viewing experience, offering audiences an immersive journey through a narrative that seamlessly integrates both emotional depth and intense sequences. The film aims to captivate viewers by delivering a harmonious blend of emotions, ensuring that the impactful moments are woven into the storytelling fabric, creating a cinematic experience that resonates on multiple levels.

There was a viral moment about violence in your films. Can you share more about that humorous response?

The discussion around increased violence in the Hindi remake of 'Arjun Reddy' caught the attention of reviewers. In a light-hearted response, I humorously mentioned that I would define violence in my next film. To my surprise, this comment took a humorous turn and gained viral popularity. It's a reminder that sometimes, a touch of humor can play a significant role in engaging with discussions surrounding creative choices in filmmaking.

Rashmika’s character in ‘Animal’ seems crucial. Can you shed light on the importance of her role?

Rashmika’s character in ‘Animal’ is intricately layered, surpassing conventional portrayals. Her role plays a significant part in weaving the fabric of the beautiful love story depicted in the film. The depth and nuance she brings to the character contribute substantially to the emotional resonance and overall impact of the narrative, elevating the cinematic experience for the audience.

‘Animal’ is a three-hour film. Does it present an opportunity for something unconventional?

'Animal' unfolds as a comprehensive family drama with nuanced layers, presenting a distinctive narrative. In contrast to the perceived unconventionality of 'Arjun Reddy' for its time, 'Animal' embraces a more traditional storytelling format. The three-hour duration serves as a canvas to intricately convey the nuances of family dynamics, allowing the narrative to delve into profound details and create a cinematic experience that unfolds seamlessly within the traditional storytelling framework.

How was it working with Ranbir Kapoor, a big Bollywood star?

Collaborating with Ranbir Kapoor has been delightful. He’s a great personality, a big star with humility and focus on set.

What inspired the title 'Animal' for the film?

The title mirrors instinctive behavior, reminiscent of animals, aligning seamlessly with the innate character of the protagonist in the story.

Tell us about the roles of Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol in ‘Animal’?

Anil Kapoor's character plays a crucial role, propelled by a definitive goal, while Bobby Deol assumes the role of the antagonist, infusing depth into the narrative.

Does the theme of revenge carry a potent impact in the movie?

Certainly, the portrayal of revenge in 'Animal' is infused with significant energy, complementing the overarching theme of love.

What inspired you to take on the role of editor for 'Animal'?

Editing is a gratifying challenge for me; it allows me to infuse my films with a personal touch and convey the emotions that hold significance for me.

In the wake of the successes of 'Arjun Reddy' and 'Kabir Singh,' how did you approach and manage the expectations for 'Animal'?

I've approached expectations with instinct, relying on creative thinking. 'Animal' has garnered acclaim for its lyrics, action sequences, and choreography.

Who handled the Telugu dubbing for the protagonist's role in 'Animal'?

Vasu lent his voice for the dubbing, skillfully conveying the emotions with finesse. On the other hand, Rashmika took charge of her own dubbing in Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.

Could you share some details about your upcoming film featuring Prabhas?

The pre-production phase is set to commence in June, where our primary focus will be on crafting the dialogues and refining the treatment for the upcoming project.

Following discussions with Prabhas and Allu Arjun, have you had the opportunity to share your narratives with any other actors?

I had the opportunity to present a story to Mahesh Babu, and he found it appealing. Regrettably, owing to his demanding schedule, we couldn't progress with it. Whether it's Mahesh Babu, Ram Charan, or any other actor, I am open to collaborating with everyone. Nevertheless, due to conflicting commitments, our discussions have remained at the preliminary stage.