Even before Indian audiences could watch it in theatres, Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy had already made waves across the global film circuit. The gritty thriller first grabbed international attention in 2023 when it premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in the prestigious Midnight Screenings section. Known for showcasing bold and unconventional cinema, the category proved to be a fitting launchpad. The film left viewers stunned and ended its screening with a seven-minute standing ovation, a rare and powerful moment that signalled strong approval from critics and global cinephiles alike.
The momentum didn’t stop there. After Cannes, Kennedy travelled to the Sydney Film Festival, where it once again received an enthusiastic standing ovation. Audiences there responded not only to the intense storytelling but also to the film’s technical craft. Its moody cinematography, raw atmosphere and pulsating background score stood out, reinforcing Anurag Kashyap’s reputation for creating uncompromising cinema that resonates beyond borders.
Back home, the film found another important stage at the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. This screening marked the first time Indian audiences could experience Kennedy on the big screen. The response was equally strong, with viewers praising its dark tone, noir-inspired visuals and fearless narrative style. The screening sparked renewed conversations around Anurag Kashyap’s filmmaking and the kind of cinema that often struggles to find space in mainstream theatrical releases.
Despite its impressive run at major festivals and consistent praise, Kennedy has still not released theatrically in India. This long delay has left fans confused, especially given the film’s international success. Starring Sunny Leone and Rahul Bhatt in lead roles, the thriller has been eagerly awaited by audiences curious to see this much-talked-about project.
Now, there finally seems to be some encouraging news. Reports suggest that Kennedy is preparing for its long-delayed Indian release but it won’t be releasing in theatres, it will have a digital release as it will be streaming on Zee5 from 20 Feb.
Kennedy’s trailer was slated to release on Sunday, February 8 during the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 and it happened as per the schedule. The launch was a key attraction on the festival’s closing day.
Director Anurag Kashyap attended the event along with lead actors Sunny Leone and Rahul Bhatt. The trio interacted with the audience and spoke about the making of the film, offering insights into its journey from concept to global festivals. The organisers have described the trailer launch as a fitting cinematic finale to the festival.
Written and directed by Anurag Kashyap, Kennedy is produced by Zee Studios along with Ranjan Singh Kabir and Ahuja under the banner of Good Bad Films. The story follows a sleep-deprived police officer searching for redemption while navigating morally complex and dangerous situations, staying true to Kashyap’s dark and immersive storytelling style.
Are you looking forward to Kennedy?
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