Taapsee Pannu leads the gritty investigative courtroom drama Assi

Anubhav Sinha’s film ASSI, which is based on terrifying everyday news, forces us to face the unpleasant reality we frequently avoid. On February 20, 2026, the movie is scheduled to be released in theaters.

The makers of ASSI, T-Series, and Benaras Media Works have now released the film’s captivating trailer after generating curiosity with its captivating motion poster. Taapsee Pannu leads the investigative courtroom drama, which is helmed by renowned director Anubhav Sinha and features a strong ensemble cast.

Alongside Taapsee, the film features Kani Kusruti, Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, with special appearances by Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, and Seema Pahwa, further elevating the film’s thrilling depth.

Kani Kusruti stands at the emotional center of the story, her character becomes the beating heart of the case, while Taapsee Pannu, a tenacious attorney who will not give up in her quest for justice, is introduced in the trailer on a suspenseful, frightening note. A fast-paced investigative expedition that rips through society’s dark, profoundly unsettling layers ensues. The play raises difficult issues of morality, responsibility, and the world we are creating for the next generation. It is more than just a legal dispute.

Talking about the trailer Producer Bhushan Kumar shared, “At T-Series, we believe in backing meaningful, hard-hitting stories that need to be told. ASSI is a story that stayed with me from the moment I heard it, it reflects realities we see around us every day but often choose to look past. Anubhav has approached this film with immense honesty, and Taapsee has brought a rare sincerity and strength to her performance. For me, this isn’t just about making a film; it’s about starting a conversation. I’m proud that T-Series is backing a story that dares to ask uncomfortable questions.”

Reflecting on the trailer Director Anubhav Sinha added , “For me, my film has to hit the core of the story. With ASSI, it felt like a loud thud exactly where it should. That impact compelled me to make this film. The story draws from everyday news, realities we often choose to ignore. To tell a story like this, Taapsee is a natural you just take her there and she delivers her best. And with Bhushan Kumar backing a film like ASSI, we know we’re striking the nail in the right corner.”

Sharing her thoughts Taapsee says, “I felt it was time to bring these stories together and put them in front of people to remind ourselves that what we read as everyday crime news should never be normalised. These incidents are alarming, they’re happening around us, and they seem to be growing. Sometimes it’s not just about the crime itself, but also about how little we do to stop it in our own capacity. When we shaped this into a two-hour narrative, it became deeply moving for me as a performer, because it forces you to confront a reality we often look away from.”

Hard-hitting and thought-provoking, the trailer leaves viewers questioning whether justice is truly served or merely declared. With justice itself placed on trial, Taapsee Pannu’s performance promises to leave a lasting impact, challenging audiences to reflect long after the verdict is delivered.

Gulshan Kumar and T-Series present ASSI, a Benaras Mediaworks Production, directed by Anubhav Sinha and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, and Anubhav Sinha.

The film is set to release exclusively in theatres worldwide on 20th February 2026.