Ranbir Kapoor–Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal Heads to Japan With February 2026 Theatrical Release
Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor and directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, is set to roar back into cinemas—this time in Japan. Nearly two years after its original Indian release, the action drama will open across Japanese theatres on February 13, 2026, marking a fresh chapter in its global box office journey.
The announcement confirms Animal as the latest Indian blockbuster to test its appeal in a new international market, where audiences have shown growing interest in large-scale, stylised Indian cinema.
Japanese Release Announcement and Special Poster
Production house Bhadrakali Films shared the news on X, unveiling a specially designed poster for Japanese viewers. The visual highlights Ranbir Kapoor’s fierce avatar as Ranvijay Singh, reinforcing the film’s aggressive tone.
The poster carries a Japanese tagline that translates to, “This man cannot be stopped.” The makers described Animal as a cinematic experience that goes beyond borders, suggesting confidence in the film’s ability to connect with audiences unfamiliar with its original cultural context.
Industry observers see the tailored marketing as a strategic move, aimed at positioning Animal as a high-intensity action spectacle rather than a conventional Bollywood drama.
Box Office Legacy and ₹1000 Crore Milestone in Sight
Animal released in India in December 2023 and quickly turned into a commercial juggernaut. The film collected around ₹553 crore net at the domestic box office and nearly ₹915 crore worldwide during its initial run. These numbers placed it among the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.
The upcoming Japanese release now gives the film a chance to edge closer to—or even cross—the ₹1000 crore global benchmark. That milestone carries added weight, especially after Dhurandhar, starring Ranveer Singh and directed by Aditya Dhar, overtook Animal’s worldwide total.
Trade analysts expect Dhurandhar to finish its run between ₹1000 crore and ₹1100 crore globally. A strong Japanese performance could help Animal regain momentum in the long-running box office race.
Japan’s Growing Appetite for Indian Blockbusters
Japanese audiences have responded positively to Indian films in recent years, especially large-scale action dramas. RRR reportedly earned over ¥2.4 billion in Japan, translating to roughly ₹150 crore. KGF: Chapter 2 also recorded impressive returns in the region.
If Animal manages to tap into similar enthusiasm, it could add a substantial boost to its worldwide earnings. The film’s intense action, dramatic score, and larger-than-life central character may appeal to Japanese viewers who already appreciate stylised, high-impact storytelling.
Distributors believe the February 2026 release window gives the film enough breathing room to stand out while building curiosity through word-of-mouth.
Cast, Creative Vision, and Ongoing Debate
Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Animal features an ensemble cast that includes Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, and Triptii Dimri in pivotal roles. Ranbir Kapoor’s intense performance as Ranvijay Singh became one of the most talked-about aspects of the film.
While the film dominated the box office, it also sparked widespread debate. Critics questioned its portrayal of violence and morally ambiguous themes. Supporters, including Vanga, defended the narrative choices as deliberate elements of artistic expression.
With its Japanese release now confirmed, Animal enters a new phase—one that could reshape its global legacy.
