In an exclusive interview, actor Rahul Bhat shared his insights into the upcoming noirish thriller “Kennedy” directed by Anurag Kashyap. Bhat, who plays the role of a cop-turned-assassin in the film, described it as a portrayal of an “angry middle-aged man,” which he believes is Kashyap’s version of the iconic archetype popularized by Salim-Javed in their films featuring Amitabh Bachchan as the angry young man.
“Kennedy” is set to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival later this month and marks the third collaboration between Kashyap and Bhat. The film delves into the life of the eponymous character, who works for a corrupt police force and is motivated by a personal vendetta. Bhat expressed his belief that “Kennedy” delves into a darker realm than Kashyap’s previous work, particularly highlighting the director’s exploration of the complexities of an individual consumed by anger.
Referring to the influential screenwriting duo of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, Bhat drew parallels between their portrayal of the angry young man in films like “Deewar,” “Trishul,” “Sholay,” and “Shakti” and Kashyap’s depiction of an angry middle-aged man in “Kennedy.” The angry young man archetype, immortalized by Bachchan, resonated with audiences in the 1970s and became synonymous with a rebellious and idealistic character fighting against societal injustice.
Bhat’s comparison suggests that Kashyap’s portrayal of the angry middle-aged man in “Kennedy” is a contemporary take on the themes of anger and disillusionment. The film delves into the complexities of the character’s motivations, exploring the corrupt system he operates in and the personal scores he seeks to settle. This exploration of an anguished and vengeful individual in a morally ambiguous world is expected to provide a unique and intense cinematic experience.
While Bhat acknowledged the legacy of Salim-Javed’s angry young man, he emphasized that “Kennedy” presents a different facet of anger, one that is matured and layered. The film is anticipated to deliver a gripping narrative filled with gritty realism and psychological depth. Bhat’s portrayal of the cop-turned-assassin adds another dimension to the character, combining elements of anger, frustration, and desperation.
As the Cannes premiere approaches, expectations are high for “Kennedy.” Kashyap’s distinct directorial style, known for its raw and visceral storytelling, combined with Bhat’s nuanced performance, promises a riveting exploration of the human psyche in the face of injustice. “Kennedy” is poised to push the boundaries of noirish thrillers, shedding light on the complex emotions and motivations that drive individuals to extreme measures.
In conclusion, Rahul Bhat’s portrayal of a cop-turned-assassin in Anurag Kashyap’s “Kennedy” is seen as the director’s interpretation of an angry middle-aged man, distinct from the iconic angry young man archetype popularized by Salim-Javed’s films featuring Amitabh Bachchan. Bhat believes that “Kennedy” delves into darker territory than Kashyap’s previous work, exploring the complexities of anger in a morally ambiguous world. With its upcoming premiere at Cannes, the film is highly anticipated to captivate audiences with its intense narrative and psychological depth.
