Ranbir Kapoor Says, "Animal Is Adult-Rated Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham"

Animal is directed by Kabir Singh director Sandeep Reddy Vanga

Actor Ranbir Kapoor on Thursday said he has played the "most complex character" of his life in Animal, a film that he described as an adult-rated version of Karan Johar's family drama Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga of Kabir Singh and Arjun Reddy fame, the film's trailer showcases a violent world set against the backdrop of a troubled relationship between Ranbir's Arjun Singh and his father Balbir Singh, played by Anil Kapoor.

At the trailer launch, Ranbir was asked to describe the film and he said: "Animal is basically the adult-rated Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham." "If I had to describe this story in a line, then it's about a man who goes to any length to protect his family. That's what the core of the film is," Kapoor told reporters at the trailer launch here. The event was also attended by Sandeep, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna, and producers Bhushan Kumar and Pranav Reddy Vanga. Animal will hit the screens on December 1.

Ranbir said it was inspiring to work with an original voice like Sandeep, adding he would not like to call his character dark but a departure from his usual chocolate boy roles. "I won't call it darkness but it is the most complex character I have played. Sandeep has given many colours to not just mine but every character. He gives all characters different emotions, complexities and that is very exciting to portray." Playing a complex role can take a toll on any actor, which is why Ranbir said it is important for a performer to learn the art of switching on and off. "When I was starting this film, I became a father. Raha was born. So, I was doing all these things on set and coming back home playing with my daughter, it was surreal. When you're inspired, you work with a lot of ease. We finished shooting in 100 days," he added. Deol said Vanga decided to cast him in the role of the antagonist in "Animal" after he saw the actor's photograph from the days when he used to play in the Celebrity Cricket League.