Ranbir Kapoor’s latest offering, Animal, has unleashed a ferocious roar at the global box office, dethroning Ridley Scott’s epic Napoleon and Lionsgate’s highly anticipated Hunger Games prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. This Sandeep Vanga Reddy-directed crime drama, painted in shades of vengeance and opulent corruption, has raked in a staggering $42.1 million worldwide, according to ComScore data.
While the film’s dominance might surprise some, it’s a testament to the captivating combination of Kapoor’s star power, Reddy’s visceral storytelling, and the film’s unapologetically Indian soul. Animal isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon, resonating deeply with audiences across continents.
No. 1 film globally over the weekend 🪓💪#AnimalHuntBegins
Book Your Tickets 🎟️ https://t.co/kAvgndK34I#Animal#AnimalInCinemasNow #AnimalTheFilm @AnimalTheFilm @AnilKapoor #RanbirKapoor @iamRashmika @thedeol @tripti_dimri23@imvangasandeep #BhushanKumar @VangaPranay… pic.twitter.com/iXyMI2PPrG
— Animal The Film (@AnimalTheFilm) December 4, 2023
Here’s a closer look at how Animal conquered the box office battlefield:
A Lion’s Roar in the Jungle: Animal’s global triumph began with its release in 38 territories, including a limited North American run across 850 screens. Despite facing stiff competition, it clawed its way to a respectable $6.1 million in North America, securing the 7th spot on the opening weekend charts. This proves that Animal’s raw energy and universal themes transcended cultural barriers, striking a chord with even the most discerning Western audience.
A Bloody Tango in International Markets: The film’s true roar echoed beyond North America. Animal amassed a staggering $36 million internationally, proving its universal appeal. From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the neon-lit avenues of Tokyo, audiences surrendered to the film’s intoxicating blend of action, drama, and family intrigue. Kapoor’s electrifying performance as the vengeful son of a ruthless media mogul (played by the legendary Anil Kapoor) resonated deeply, making Animal a global conversation starter.
Napoleon Loses Its Edge: Ridley Scott’s visually stunning Napoleon, despite boasting an Apple TV+ backing and Sony Pictures’ distribution muscle, couldn’t match Animal’s raw power. While it earned a respectable $35.7 million worldwide, including $28.6 million internationally, it fell short of expectations. The historical epic’s slow burn and limited emotional range might have dampened its global appeal.
Hunger Games Pales in Comparison: Even the highly anticipated Hunger Games prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, couldn’t outshine Animal’s ferocity. With an estimated $29.4 million globally, it landed in third place, highlighting the enduring legacy of the original Hunger Games while acknowledging Animal’s undeniable impact.
Animal’s success signifies a paradigm shift in global cinema. It’s not just a Bollywood film conquering the world; it’s a testament to the power of raw storytelling that transcends borders and languages. Animal’s roar is a wake-up call to the industry, proving that captivating narratives, regardless of origin, can captivate audiences worldwide.
As Animal continues its victory lap across the globe, one thing is certain: Ranbir Kapoor has established himself as a force to be reckoned with, and Sandeep Vanga Reddy has proven his mettle as a director who can weave universal tales dipped in local flavor. This bloody tango at the box office is a win not just for them, but for bold, unapologetic storytelling that dares to defy boundaries and leave audiences breathless.
So, the next time you hear a lion’s roar, remember it might not be coming from the savanna. It might just be Animal, reminding us that sometimes, the most captivating stories are born from the darkest corners of our world.