Exclusive: Ranbir Kapoor was fantastic in Animal, Arjun Rampal hails evolution of dark roles in Hindi cinema

Exclusive: Ranbir Kapoor was fantastic in Animal, Arjun Rampal hails evolution of dark roles in Hindi cinema

Arjun Rampal has always been drawn to roles that go beyond the surface. Known for playing complex, intense characters, Rampal brings that same energy to his new role in Rana Naidu Season 2. As audiences discover his chilling yet human portrayal of Rauf, in an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol.com, Arjun Rampal also reflects on how Bollywood is slowly embracing darker, more layered characters—something he strongly supports.

The actor believes there is a growing shift in the industry when it comes to villains and anti-heroes. “A few people are doing it. And the ones who have explored anti-heroes or dark characters have been extremely successful,” Rampal says. He points to Animal, one of the most talked-about films in recent times, as a prime example. “Take Animal, for example—how successful was that? Ranbir was fantastic in it.”

Rampal’s words highlight an important change in Hindi cinema. For years, villains were often one-dimensional, created simply to oppose the hero. But in today’s storytelling, these characters are more human. They have emotions, backstories, and motives. They’re not just evil—they’re real, flawed people, and that makes them much more interesting to watch.

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“Some are doing it really well,” Rampal adds. “And some maybe need to do it a bit better.” He’s hopeful that more filmmakers will continue to take risks and offer actors the chance to play such roles. This, he feels, is not just exciting for the audience, but also gives performers a chance to grow and push their limits.

Rampal’s own film choices reflect this belief. From the layered gangster in Daddy to his latest role in Rana Naidu, he continues to seek out characters who exist in the grey area between good and bad. And he has no plans of slowing down. With ten new films in the pipeline—including powerful dramas, thrillers, and experimental stories—Rampal is making sure he stays on the edge of storytelling.

With his brooding performance in Rana Naidu Season 2 and a slate of diverse films lined up, Arjun Rampal continues to evolve—not just as an actor, but as a storyteller unafraid to explore the shadows.