Kennedy Teaser: Rahul Bhat Turns Lethal in Anurag Kashyap’s Dark Noir Universe

The teaser of Kennedy, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap and starring Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone, has been officially released ahead of the film’s digital premiere on Zee5. After an impressive run at several prestigious international film festivals, the much-talked-about neo-noir thriller is finally set to release for Indian audiences on February 20, 2026.

The release of the teaser marks a significant moment for cinephiles who have been eagerly waiting to witness Kashyap’s latest cinematic vision. Early glimpses from the teaser suggest a gritty, atmospheric narrative that stays true to the filmmaker’s signature style while pushing emotional and ethical boundaries.

Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone in Kennedy

Rahul Bhat takes center stage as Kennedy, delivering what appears to be a deeply unsettling and restrained performance. The teaser showcases his transformation into a haunted man operating in morally ambiguous territory, where violence feels both inevitable and personal. His portrayal hints at internal conflict, suppressed rage, and a quiet descent into darkness.

Sunny Leone, meanwhile, brings a striking screen presence that adds another layer of intrigue to the narrative. Though her role remains largely under wraps, the teaser suggests a character that is integral to the emotional and psychological landscape of the film. Together, the lead pair anchors a story where brutality, remorse, and the hope for redemption are tightly interwoven.

Anurag Kashyap’s Signature Noir Aesthetic

The teaser plunges viewers into Anurag Kashyap’s unmistakable noir world—bleak, shadowy, and emotionally intense. Marked by stark visuals and an ominous mood, Kennedy appears to be one of the director’s darkest works yet. Zee5 has described the film as “darker, deadlier, and undeniably Kashyap,” a claim that the teaser seems to fully support.

From rain-soaked streets to dimly lit interiors, the atmosphere reflects a fractured society and damaged individuals, reinforcing Kashyap’s reputation for fearless storytelling and raw realism.

Direct-to-Digital Release on Zee5

In a notable move, Kennedy will bypass a traditional theatrical release and premiere directly on the Zee5 streaming platform. Announcing the release on Social Media, Zee5 wrote: “System ne Kennedy ko ek hathiyaar banaya tha, par yeh woh hathiyaar hai jo system se nahin, apni marzi se chalta hai” (The system created Kennedy as a weapon, but this is a weapon that functions not by the system’s command, but by its own will).

The platform confirmed that Kennedy will stream exclusively on Zee5 from February 20, further fueling anticipation among fans of hard-hitting, unconventional cinema.

Acclaimed Run at International Film Festivals

Just days before the teaser launch, Anurag Kashyap described the film’s digital release as a project that is “finally coming home.” Kennedy garnered widespread attention during its international festival circuit, with screenings at renowned platforms such as Cannes, MAMI, and Mitti.

The positive critical reception at these festivals has significantly raised expectations among Indian audiences, who are now set to experience the film beyond the global arthouse circuit.

Storyline and Ensemble Cast

Kennedy revolves around Uday Shetty, a former police officer presumed dead, who now operates as a hitman under the alias Kennedy in a corrupt and broken system. Battling insomnia, addiction, and inner turmoil, the character’s journey explores psychological trauma, unchecked violence, and a desperate search for absolution.

Alongside Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone, the film features a strong supporting cast including Mohit Takalkar, Abhilash Thapliyal, Megha Burman, Shrikant Yadav, Kurush Deboo, Karishma Modi, and Aamir Dalvi. Written and directed by Anurag Kashyap, Kennedy is produced by Good Bad Films and will be released under the Zee Studios banner.

With its haunting teaser, acclaimed festival pedigree, and bold narrative promise, Kennedy is shaping up to be one of the most compelling digital releases of 2026.