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Bad Animal

Bad Animal (2021)

Oct 02, 2021 1h 25m Music Drama

Everything changes for a rising hip-hop star, SEMBRÉ, and his manager, MARLENE, a talented indie artist in her own right; as they are dealing with the collapse of their five-year romance, a new producer shows up with a major record deal, forcing them to confront their past while navigating the price of loyalty and fame in the underground Chicago music scene.

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Directed by Remsy Atassi

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Remsy Atassi
Writer
  • Remsy Atassi
Producer
  • Brittany Wagner
  • Kelsey Bunner

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Bad Animal examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Remsy Atassi brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Bad Animal took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 110 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1185 individual shots.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Bad Animal shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Straight Outta Compton, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Bad Animal offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter and The Beginning explore similar territory, Bad Animal stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 2, 2021
  • Runtime: 1h 25m