Kennedy marks the return of filmmaker Anurag Kashyap to his gritty, character-driven storytelling roots. Premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, the film generated strong buzz for its moody visuals and intense performances. With Rahul Bhat in the titular role and Sunny Leone in a surprisingly layered performance, Kennedy attempts to blend noir aesthetics with psychological drama. But does it live up to the hype?
Plot Overview (No Major Spoilers)
Kennedy revolves around an insomniac former cop, presumed dead, who operates in the shadows of a corrupt system. Living a ghost-like existence, Kennedy works as an unofficial hitman, navigating crime, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. As he gets entangled in a complex web of political corruption and personal revenge, his fractured psyche becomes central to the narrative.
The film doesn’t rely on conventional storytelling. Instead, it unfolds like a slow burn—heavy on atmosphere, internal conflict, and long stretches of silence. Viewers expecting a fast-paced action thriller may be surprised; Kennedy is more about mood and character than spectacle.
Performance Analysis
Rahul Bhat as Kennedy
Rahul Bhat delivers one of the most restrained performances of his career. His portrayal of a broken, sleep-deprived ex-cop feels authentic and unsettling. The physical transformation—dark circles, rigid posture, and hollow expressions—adds depth to his character. He doesn’t overact; instead, he internalizes Kennedy’s pain, making the performance hauntingly believable.
Sunny Leone’s Career-Best Performance
Sunny Leone surprises critics with a performance that goes beyond glamour. Her character carries emotional vulnerability and mystery. She holds her own opposite Bhat and brings nuance to scenes that could have easily been superficial. This film could mark a turning point in her acting career.
Direction and Screenplay
Anurag Kashyap once again proves why he remains one of India’s most distinctive filmmakers. Known for cult classics like Gangs of Wasseypur, Kashyap uses minimal dialogue and shadow-heavy cinematography to create tension.
However, the screenplay may divide audiences. The pacing is deliberately slow, and the nonlinear narrative demands patience. Some sequences feel stretched, but they serve the psychological tone of the film.
The storytelling leans heavily on atmosphere rather than plot twists. If you appreciate neo-noir cinema with moral complexity, Kennedy will resonate deeply.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography deserves special mention. Dark corridors, neon-lit nightclubs, and rain-soaked streets create a brooding urban landscape. The lighting design amplifies Kennedy’s internal darkness.
The background score is subtle yet effective. Instead of loud action music, the film uses ambient sounds to enhance suspense. Silence becomes a storytelling tool.
Strengths of Kennedy
✔ Strong, immersive performance by Rahul Bhat
✔ Surprisingly solid act by Sunny Leone
✔ Stylish noir cinematography
✔ International recognition at Cannes
✔ Psychological depth
Weaknesses
✘ Slow pacing may not appeal to mainstream audiences
✘ Complex narrative requires full attention
✘ Limited commercial appeal
Is Kennedy Worth Watching?
If you are a fan of artistic, layered cinema rather than mass-market thrillers, Kennedy is worth your time. It is not designed to be a crowd-pleaser; instead, it targets viewers who appreciate dark character studies.
From a critic’s standpoint, Kennedy succeeds more as an atmospheric experience than a conventional thriller. While it may not break box office records, it reinforces Anurag Kashyap’s reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to experiment.
Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Kennedy is a bold, moody neo-noir that thrives on performance and atmosphere. Rahul Bhat shines, Sunny Leone impresses, and Anurag Kashyap delivers a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
