Date: July 23, 2024

Animal vs. Bad Newz: Is Bollywood Being Unfair?

Bollywood’s Double Standards

The recent debate surrounding Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film “Animal” and the release of “Bad Newz” has sparked significant discussions about how Bollywood handles narratives on infidelity and gender roles. The contrasting reactions to these films highlight potential biases in the industry’s reception of different themes based on gender perspectives.

The Controversy of “Animal”

“Animal” features a male lead involved in an extramarital affair, which has drawn substantial criticism despite the film’s impressive box office success, grossing over ₹900 crores. Critics have accused Vanga of promoting toxic masculinity and patriarchal values through violent themes and the portrayal of women in his film. This backlash mirrors the criticisms faced by Vanga for his previous work, “Arjun Reddy.”

Sandeep Reddy Vanga defended his film, arguing that critics often overlook the deeper messages in his work. He emphasized the need for consistent judgment across different films, suggesting that his narratives are misunderstood and unfairly targeted due to preconceived notions about his directorial style.

The Acceptance of “Bad Newz”

In stark contrast, “Bad Newz” tells the story of a woman who accidentally becomes pregnant with twins from two different men. This film has surprisingly not faced the same level of backlash as “Animal.” Supporters of Sandeep Vanga have highlighted this discrepancy, questioning why male-centered narratives receive harsher criticism compared to female-focused stories that also address complex issues.

Gender Bias in Bollywood

The differing receptions of “Animal” and “Bad Newz” have led to discussions about potential double standards in Bollywood. Some argue that the industry is more forgiving of female-centric narratives, while male-centered stories, especially those involving controversial themes, face stricter scrutiny. This debate extends to the broader context of how Bollywood treats films directed by South Indian filmmakers who often break box office records, compared to those by Bollywood’s own directors.

The Role of Tripti Dimri

Adding to the intrigue, “Bad Newz” gained additional attention due to the involvement of Tripti Dimri, who played a striking role in “Animal.” Her daring performance in “Animal” and subsequent appearance in “Bad Newz” have contributed to the latter’s visibility and discussions about the biases in the industry.

Conclusion

The debate over “Animal” and “Bad Newz” underscores the need for a more nuanced and consistent approach to film criticism in Bollywood. Addressing these biases can lead to a more inclusive and fair evaluation of films, regardless of the gender of the lead characters or the origin of the filmmakers. As the industry evolves, it is essential to recognize and challenge these double standards to foster a more balanced cinematic landscape.