Anurag Kashyap, the prolific and influential Indian filmmaker, brings his signature style to the forefront in Kennedy, a gripping and intense thriller set against the backdrop of a corrupt and chaotic city. The film introduces us to its titular character, an insomniac ex-cop presumed dead, but still very much alive and operating within the shadows of a corrupt system. Rahul Bhat portrays Kennedy with remarkable depth, immersing himself in a character plagued by guilt and seeking redemption through a series of morally complex actions. Set during the Covid lockdown, the film explores the depths of Mumbai’s criminal underbelly, where the line between law enforcement and the mafia becomes increasingly blurred. Kashyap weaves a narrative that draws inspiration from real-life events, including the Scorpio incident of 2021, where a car laden with explosives was found near an industrialist’s residence. The film’s relentless pace mirrors the frenetic mind of its protagonist, capturing the essence of a man operating beyond the constraints of the law. Shot entirely at night, Kennedy exudes a palpable sense of darkness and amorality, immersing the audience in the grim and treacherous world Kennedy navigates. Sylvester Fonseca’s cinematography, accompanied by the poignant background score, including selections from Tchaikovsky and Swan Lake performed by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, create an immersive atmosphere. This fusion of music, Aamir Aziz’s soul-stirring poetry not only enriches the film’s thematic depth but also underscores Anurag Kashyap’s mastery in crafting a truly engrossing cinematic experience, This dark and gritty thriller that explores the psyche of a man driven to the brink of madness by his past actions undeniably showcases Anurag’s distinctive style and storytelling prowess.Raman Chawla