The recently released Hindi film “Assi,” directed by Anubhav Sinha, has emerged as a significant addition to Bollywood’s exploration of social issues, particularly sexual violence and the pursuit of justice. Starring Taapsee Pannu, Kani Kusruti, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in pivotal roles, the movie premiered in theaters amid considerable anticipation, given Sinha’s track record with socially conscious narratives such as “Mulk” and “Thappad.”
This courtroom drama, running approximately 133 to 134 minutes, delves into the traumatic aftermath of a gang rape, examining themes of consent, societal stigma, corruption, and vigilante justice.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Parima (played by Kani Kusruti), a dedicated schoolteacher in Delhi who endures a brutal gang rape by a group of young men following a school event. Left for dead near railway tracks, Parima survives but faces profound physical and psychological scars. Her supportive husband, Vinay (Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub), and young son, Dhruv (Advik Jaiswal), grapple with the repercussions, highlighting the ripple effects of such crimes on families.
Enter Raavi (Taapsee Pannu), a determined lawyer who takes on Parima’s case, navigating a complex legal battle against influential perpetrators, a shrewd defense attorney, and systemic biases. Subplots introduce elements like a mysterious vigilante known as “The Umbrella Man,” who targets the rapists, and ongoing societal debates on accountability and parenting.
The narrative unfolds through intense courtroom sequences, interspersed with flashbacks to the assault and explorations of Parima’s recovery. Periodic on-screen reminders underscore the alarming statistic of a rape occurring every 20 minutes in India, serving as a stark call to societal awareness.
Critical Reception
“Assi” has elicited mixed responses from critics, praised for its unflinching portrayal of trauma yet critiqued for its graphic intensity and narrative overcrowding. NDTV awarded it 2.5 out of 5 stars, describing it as “triggering and traumatic,” with strong intentions but elements that feel forced, such as the vigilante subplot.
Similarly, Koimoi also rated it 2.5 stars, commending the powerful theme but noting an overambitious script that leads to a meandering and inconclusive climax. Scroll.in highlighted its “harrowing, hard-hitting, and high-minded” approach, appreciating the layers beyond the initial shock but questioning the necessity of explicit depictions and the film’s grim righteousness.
On social media platform X, user discussions reflect a range of views. One post from NBC BHARAT emphasizes the film’s courtroom twists and crime elements, labeling it a “big twist” with the Umbrella Man. Another from GlamWorldTalks rates it 4 out of 5, calling it “mind-boggling,” while The Cloud 9 questions whether it delivers powerful cinema or a preachy lecture. These reactions indicate the film’s ability to provoke dialogue, though some find its pacing uneven and subplots distracting.
Performances and Technical Aspects
The ensemble cast delivers compelling performances that anchor the film’s emotional core. Kani Kusruti stands out as Parima, conveying suppressed anger, helplessness, and resilience with remarkable depth, earning acclaim for her nuanced portrayal. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub is lauded for his heartfelt depiction of Vinay, capturing the spouse’s catatonia and unwavering support. Young actor Advik Jaiswal impresses with his innocent yet poignant reactions as Dhruv.
Taapsee Pannu, as the fierce advocate Raavi, brings intensity to her role, though some reviews note a lack of variation from her previous courtroom portrayals under Sinha. Supporting actors, including Revathy as the conflicted judge, Kumud Mishra as Kartik, and Manoj Pahwa in a brief but impactful role, contribute effectively.
Technically, the film benefits from Ewan Mulligan’s cinematography, featuring a muted palette and unnerving close-ups that enhance the sense of dread. The script, co-written by Sinha and Gaurav Solanki, offers razor-sharp dialogues but is occasionally hampered by an excess of debates and twists.
Conclusion
“Assi” represents a bold attempt to address rape culture and systemic failures, succeeding in evoking empathy and urgency through its central performances and thematic depth. However, its graphic elements and convoluted subplots may alienate some viewers, potentially diluting its impact.
As a socially relevant film, it prompts essential conversations, though it falls short of the coherence seen in Sinha’s earlier works like “Article 15.” For audiences prepared for its intensity, “Assi” offers a thought-provoking experience; others may find it overly distressing. The movie is currently playing in theaters and is recommended for those interested in hard-hitting social dramas.
