Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy hits screens in February 2026, arriving like a long-delayed storm after its Cannes buzz years ago. Expectations ran high for this neo-noir thriller—Kashyap back in gritty territory, Rahul Bhat in a lead role. It promises raw intensity, and it mostly delivers.
The story follows Uday Shetty, alias Kennedy, an ex-cop declared dead but very much alive. He moves through Mumbai’s shadows, handling dirty jobs for a corrupt system while chasing his own twisted redemption. Layers unfold slowly: betrayal, insomnia, and a city rotting from within. Curiosity builds without cheap reveals. You sense the noose tightening around him.
Plus Points
- Rahul Bhat dominates with a chilling, internalized performance—dead-eyed, gravelly, utterly committed.
- Kashyap’s direction shines in nocturnal mood and bursts of brutal violence that feel choreographed yet shocking.
- Cinematography captures Mumbai’s grimy underbelly beautifully, with moody lighting and restless energy.
- Sunny Leone adds intrigue in a supporting role that surprises with depth.
Minus Points
- Pacing drags in the middle; the slow burn turns sluggish over 148 minutes.
- Plot feels loose and convoluted at times, with political commentary that hints but doesn’t fully bite.
- Some scenes overstay their welcome, diluting tension.
- Supporting characters occasionally fade into the atmosphere.
Technical Aspects The visuals stand out—night-time shots pulse with menace, edited sharply to keep momentum where possible. Music choices heighten unease without overpowering. Sound design immerses you in the chaos. Kashyap’s signature style returns: unflinching, unapologetic, and technically assured. Performances carry the weight, especially Bhat’s muscular restraint.
Final Verdict Kennedy is a solid, brooding neo-noir that rewards patience. It exposes systemic rot without preaching, powered by Bhat’s career-best work and Kashyap’s moody vision. Flaws in pacing prevent it from greatness, but it lingers uncomfortably. Recommended for fans of dark thrillers—skip if you want fast action. Worth the wait, just not flawless.
