Directed by the visionary Anubhav Sinha, Assi (2026) is a hard-hitting investigative courtroom thriller that reunites the director with Taapsee Pannu after their successful collaborations in Mulk and Thappad. The film’s title, which translates to "80," serves as a chilling reminder of the number of sexual assault cases reported in India every single day. Released on February 20, 2026, this movie is not just a legal drama but a mirror to society, challenging the collective conscience regarding justice and safety.
Directed by: Anubhav Sinha
Written by: Anubhav Sinha & Gaurav Solanki
Produced by: Anubhav Sinha, Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar
Starring: Taapsee Pannu, Kani Kusruti, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra
Cinematography: Ewan Mulligan
Edited by: Yasha Ramchandani
Music by: Mangesh Dhakde
Choreographer: Not Applicable (Drama/Thriller Genre)
Release Date: 20 February 2026
Running Time: 133 Minutes
Country: India
Language: Hindi
Dubbing: Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada
Budget: ₹35 Crore (Estimated)
OTT Platform: ZEE5
OTT Release Date: 17 April 2026 (Tentative)
About the Movie
Assi is a gripping cinematic experience that blends intense investigative work with a powerful courtroom battle. The plot revolves around Parima (played by Kani Kusruti), a survivor of a brutal assault by five men in a moving car. Taapsee Pannu steps into the shoes of Advocate Raavi, a relentless lawyer who takes up the case to fight for justice against all odds.
The film is uniquely structured to keep the audience aware of the grim reality it portrays; reportedly, the screen briefly flashes or turns red every 20 minutes to signify another incident occurring in real-time across the country. With impressive direction and a screenplay that avoids typical commercial tropes, Assi keeps the audience connected through a realistic and raw portrayal of the Indian legal system.
About the Cast
The film features a powerhouse ensemble cast. Taapsee Pannu delivers a career-best performance as a lawyer who is as vulnerable as she is fierce. Kani Kusruti, as the survivor Parima, serves as the emotional heartbeat of the film, capturing the trauma and resilience of her character with haunting precision.
The supporting cast includes industry veterans like Manoj Pahwa and Kumud Mishra, who bring gravitas to the legal proceedings. Special appearances by legends like Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, and Seema Pahwa add layers of depth to the narrative, making every scene feel grounded and impactful. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub also shines in a pivotal role that highlights the societal pressures surrounding such sensitive cases.
Message of the Movie
The movie delivers a strong message about accountability, moral courage, and the urgent need for societal change. It goes beyond the "victim" narrative to ask why such violence persists and how the system often fails those who need it most. It highlights that standing together in pursuit of the truth is the only way to break the cycle of silence.
Should You Watch This Movie?
If you enjoy meaningful stories with immense emotional depth and a clear social message, Assi is a must-watch. It is a film for those who appreciate substance over style and want to engage with cinema that sparks a conversation. The screenplay is tight, and the performances are world-class.
However, if you are looking for lighthearted commercial entertainment or fast-paced action, you might find the heavy themes and deliberate pacing of this courtroom drama quite intense. It is a significant piece of filmmaking that deserves to be seen, especially for those who admired Sinha's previous works like Article 15.
Family & Friends Warning: This movie is suitable for mature audiences and families with older children. Due to the sensitive nature of the subject (sexual assault) and the high emotional intensity, parental guidance is strongly advised for younger viewers.