Anurag Kashyap teases India release of 'Kennedy' at Texas Screening

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has left Indian cinephiles excited as he shares hints of the imminent domestic release of his neo-noir thriller, 'Kennedy'. The director addressed an enthusiastic, packed theatre during a screening of the film at the 10th Indie Meme Film Festival in Austin, Texas, sharing his optimism about its arrival in India.
'Kennedy', starring Sunny Leone and Rahul Bhatt in pivotal roles, marks Kashyap's 27th directorial venture. The film first garnered international attention with its premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2023. Since then, it has embarked on a remarkable journey across the globe, captivating audiences at over 20 international film festivals, including prominent events in Sydney, South Korea, Switzerland, Melbourne, London, and the United States, among others.
Speaking to the Texan audience, Kashyap expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the continued love and appreciation 'Kennedy' has received worldwide. He remarked on the film's enduring appeal, nearly two years after its Cannes debut, noting the consistent invitations to discuss it at various international platforms. More importantly for Indian audiences, Kashyap revealed that his producers back home are actively working towards the film's release, suggesting that it should materialize in the near future.
However, the journey to an India release hasn't been without its hurdles. In a recent conversation with The Hindu, Kashyap shed light on the reasons behind the delay. He clarified that 'Kennedy' has already cleared the censorship process, but its fate currently rests with a studio navigating financial challenges and the departure of key executives who were initially strong advocates for the project. This revelation underscores the complexities involved in film distribution, even after critical acclaim and festival success.
'Kennedy' is a unique cinematic endeavor, primarily filmed during the nocturnal hours on the bustling streets of Mumbai over a demanding 30-day schedule. The narrative centers around an insomniac former police officer, widely believed to be deceased, who continues to operate within the shadows of a corrupt system while desperately seeking redemption. The compelling script was penned by Kashyap himself during the restrictive period of the COVID-19 lockdown, indicating a deeply personal and creatively driven project.
Produced by Zee Studios and Good Bad Films, 'Kennedy' has already established its credentials on the international stage. The director's recent address in Texas serves as a reassuring sign for Indian audiences eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience this acclaimed thriller on their home turf. While the exact release date remains under wraps, Kashyap's optimistic tone suggests that 'Kennedy' will soon grace Indian cinema screens, adding another intriguing chapter to Anurag Kashyap's diverse and impactful filmography.