After earning critical acclaim but witnessing a disappointing run in theatres, Taapsee Pannu-starrer Assi, directed by Anubhav Sinha, is set for its OTT release. The courtroom drama will premiere on ZEE5 on April 17.
Assi boasts a strong ensemble cast including Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Kani Kusruti, Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, and Seema Pahwa among others.
The film revolves around a lawyer (Taapsee) who takes up a brutal rape case, delving beyond the crime to expose systemic apathy. One of its hard-hitting moments highlights a chilling statistic—nearly 80 rape cases reported in a single day—underlining the urgency of its narrative.
It also follows the journey of a survivor and her partner (played by Kani Kusruti and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub), whose lives are torn apart as they grapple with trauma, social stigma, and a flawed legal system. Rooted in the realities of rising sexual violence and delayed justice, Assi explores the emotional aftermath that often goes unspoken.
Speaking about the film, Anubhav Sinha said Assi reflects the times we live in, aiming to present uncomfortable truths while celebrating human resilience. He expressed hope that its OTT release would help the film reach a wider audience.
Taapsee Pannu described the role as one of her most challenging, adding that while Assi is not an easy watch, it is an important and necessary story told with honesty and sensitivity.
Written by Gaurav Solanki and Anubhav Sinha, the film is produced by Benaras Media Works and T-Series Films.