Gunjan Chaudhary
Renowned filmmaker Anubhav Sinha returned to theatres with his hard-hitting socio-political drama Assi, which released on February 20. While the film may be struggling commercially, it has sparked powerful conversations and now veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar has openly praised the film for its emotional and intellectual depth. Let us tell you that Assi tackles the disturbing realities of sexual harassment and the flaws within the social and legal systems.
Assi
Javed Akhtar Praised Assi
The courtroom drama, layered storytelling, and emotional intensity have struck a chord with audiences who appreciate meaningful cinema. Sharing his thoughts, Javed Akhtar said, “Some films touch the heart. Some films work on an intellectual level, engaging the mind. But very few films can touch both the heart and the mind at the same time. I believe Assi is one such film.”
Javed Akhtar
He further added that the film raises difficult questions instead of offering easy answers, compelling viewers to reflect deeply on societal realities and said, “It’s beautifully and effectively presented. Ultimately, it leaves both answers and questions in the minds of the audience.” Celebrity chef and MasterChef judge Ranveer Brar also appreciated the film, calling it visually powerful and thought-provoking.
Assi
Despite a positive response from critics and several public figures, Assi has witnessed a sharp drop in box office numbers after its opening weekend. The film reportedly opened with ₹1 crore on its first day, followed by ₹3.20 crore over the next two days. However, collections declined significantly afterward. With an estimated budget of ₹30 crore, the film has yet to recover even a quarter of its production cost.
Assi
Trade experts suggest that the lack of mainstream star power and limited promotions may have contributed to its underwhelming commercial performance. However, audiences who have watched the film continue to praise its storytelling and strong performances. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, Assi presents an unsettling narrative that challenges both social attitudes and the justice system. The story revolves around Parima, played by Kani Kusruti, a teacher living a peaceful life with her husband Vinay and their son.