Kennedy Movie Review: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Kennedy earns a solid 3 out of 5 stars for its intense performances, strong noir atmosphere, and bold direction. While the pacing and uneven screenplay may not work for everyone, it remains a compelling watch for fans of dark, character-driven cinema.
Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy finally arrived on ZEE5 after a long festival journey and much anticipation among cinema lovers. Known for pushing storytelling boundaries, Kashyap presents a dark neo-noir thriller that focuses more on mood and character than conventional action.
The film stars Rahul Bhat as an ex-cop presumed dead who now works as a hitman in a corrupt system. It is not a typical commercial thriller but rather a psychological exploration of identity, guilt, and survival in a morally complex world.
Table of Contents
Story Overview
Set in pandemic-era Mumbai, Kennedy follows a man who lives between life and death as he navigates crime, politics, and personal trauma. The city itself becomes a character, reflecting isolation and emotional decay.
The narrative moves slowly, allowing viewers to absorb the protagonist’s internal conflict rather than relying on fast twists. This storytelling choice may divide audiences, but it adds depth and realism to the experience.
Reason 1: Rahul Bhat’s Powerful Performance
Rahul Bhat delivers one of his most intense performances as Kennedy, portraying silent rage and emotional emptiness with remarkable control. His restrained acting style makes the character believable and haunting.
He rarely raises his voice, yet his eyes carry the emotional weight of the story. This subtle performance anchors the film and keeps viewers invested even during quieter moments.
Reason 2: Sunny Leone’s Surprising Transformation
Sunny Leone appears as Charlie, a mysterious neighbor who adds emotional complexity to the story. Her performance marks a shift from glamour roles to a more layered character.
While reactions are mixed, many viewers appreciate her attempt at a dramatic role. She brings vulnerability and unpredictability that fits the film’s noir tone.
Reason 3: Anurag Kashyap’s Distinct Noir Style
Kashyap is known for unconventional filmmaking, and Kennedy continues that tradition with its dark atmosphere and psychological storytelling. The film explores corruption, loneliness, and moral ambiguity without simplifying the issues.
His direction focuses on mood rather than spectacle, which may feel slow but creates a lasting emotional impact. Fans of artistic cinema will likely appreciate this approach.
Reason 4: Haunting Visuals and Music
The cinematography captures Mumbai as a bleak urban landscape, especially during the pandemic setting. Dim lighting, shadows, and empty spaces enhance the noir aesthetic beautifully.
The background score adds emotional depth without overpowering scenes. Together, visuals and music create an immersive experience that stays with viewers after the film ends.
Reason 5: Strong Supporting Cast and Themes
Apart from the leads, the supporting cast contributes effectively to the film’s layered storytelling. Characters representing politics, crime, and personal relationships add texture to Kennedy’s journey.
Themes of revenge, identity loss, and systemic corruption are explored thoughtfully. The film encourages reflection rather than offering simple answers.
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Direction and Technical Execution
Technically, Kennedy is polished and atmospheric. The editing, lighting, and sound design work together to maintain tension and emotional depth throughout the narrative.
However, some viewers may find the pacing uneven, particularly in the first half. The film demands patience, but its payoff lies in mood and character rather than action.
What Works Well
The biggest strength of Kennedy is its commitment to a distinct cinematic voice. It refuses to follow mainstream formulas and instead prioritizes storytelling depth.
Performances, especially Rahul Bhat’s, elevate the film significantly. The visual style and psychological focus also make it memorable for fans of serious cinema.
What Could Be Better
The screenplay occasionally feels scattered, and some narrative threads could have been tighter. A slightly faster pace might have improved engagement for general audiences.
Certain characters, including Charlie, could have been explored more deeply. This would have strengthened emotional connections and narrative clarity.
Audience Reception and Overall Impact
Audience reactions have been mixed but largely respectful toward the film’s ambition. Many appreciate its artistic approach and strong performances, while others prefer more traditional thrillers.
Despite minor flaws, Kennedy stands out as a bold OTT release that prioritizes storytelling depth over commercial formulas. It is a film that sparks conversation rather than offering easy entertainment.
Also Read: Kennedy Movie on ZEE5: Release Date, Cast, Crew, Plot, Trailer, and More
Final Verdict
Kennedy is not a casual watch but a thoughtful neo-noir experience best suited for viewers who enjoy slow-burn psychological dramas. Its mood, performances, and direction make it worth streaming on ZEE5.
If you appreciate unconventional cinema and strong character studies, this film deserves a place on your watchlist. It may not be perfect, but it is certainly compelling.
Overall Rating: 3/5