Assi hits theaters this February 2026, and it wastes no time shaking you awake. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film arrives with heavy expectations after his sharp social commentaries like Thappad and Article 15. This time, he dives into the grim statistic of eighty reported sexual assaults every day in India. The result is a courtroom drama that refuses to look away.
The story centers on a brutal crime against a schoolteacher named Parima. What follows is her grueling pursuit of justice through a flawed system. Taapsee Pannu plays Raavi, the fierce lawyer who takes up the case. The narrative builds tension in the courtroom, exposing layers of societal complicity, police handling, and legal loopholes. It keeps you hooked without cheap twists, forcing questions about why these crimes persist.
Plus Points
- Taapsee Pannu delivers a raw, commanding performance as the determined lawyer—her intensity carries the film.
- Kani Kusruti shines as the survivor, bringing quiet strength and authenticity that hits hard.
- Anubhav Sinha handles the sensitive subject with restraint—no sensationalism, just unflinching honesty.
- Powerful dialogues and courtroom sequences spark real discomfort and reflection.
Minus Points
- The pacing drags slightly in the middle, making some sections feel prolonged.
- Certain supporting characters lack depth, serving more as plot devices.
- The heavy tone offers little breathing room, which might overwhelm some viewers.
Technical Aspects Cinematography captures the stark reality effectively—claustrophobic courtrooms contrast with grim exteriors. Ranjit Barot’s background score stays subtle yet impactful, amplifying tension without overpowering. Editing keeps the focus tight on emotional beats. Performances from Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and others add credibility to the ensemble. The direction shows maturity in tackling a tough topic without exploitation.
Final Verdict Assi is not easy viewing, but it is essential. It confronts uncomfortable truths about women’s safety, justice, and societal indifference head-on. If you want cinema that challenges and provokes rather than entertains lightly, this one demands to be seen. Strongly recommended for its courage and conviction—watch it, discuss it, reflect on it.
