Nishaanchi review: Netizens disappointed with Anurag Kashyap’s film, say story and direction lack punch

Anurag Kashyap’s highly anticipated gangster drama, Nishaanchi, has finally hit theaters, but early reactions suggest it has not met audience expectations. Known for his gritty and unconventional storytelling, Kashyap has delivered critically acclaimed films in the past, yet viewers appear underwhelmed by his latest effort.

Many audience members described the film as confusing and boring. “I did not like the film. It was very bad. I couldn’t understand anything, it’s very boring,” said one viewer. Another added, “There is no story, I can’t understand anything, it’s a completely useless film.”

Criticism extends beyond the plot. “Very bad, third-class boring, the direction is very poor,” commented another audience member, while one remarked, “I never expected Anurag Kashyap would make a film like this. No quality, no story. The actors are terrible.”

Nishaanchi marks the acting debut of Aaishvary Thackeray, grandson of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray. The film also features Monika Panwar, Vedika Pinto, Kumud Mishra, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in prominent roles. Produced by Ajay Rai and Ranjan Singh under Jar Pictures, in association with Flip Films, the film had been highly anticipated.

Speaking about the project, Anurag Kashyap said, “Nishaanchi is a story I’ve carried with me for years. It’s my most cinematic film with a classic story at its center involving emotion, betrayal, action - everything I grew up loving in Hindi films. Working with Amazon MGM Studios India was extremely fruitful as they trusted me completely.”

He further added, “Aaishvary, Vedika, Monika, Zeeshan, Kumud, and every single actor in the film— they didn’t just act, they lived and breathed these characters. Their commitment to the story and the authenticity of their performances shines in the film. And my crew matched that passion frame by frame, making the film come out so good. And the music — also carries that same emotion that runs through the film, and amplifies the story. I am confident that the audience will really like the music.”

Despite Kashyap’s confidence, early reviews and public sentiment indicate that Nishaanchi may struggle to impress at the box office.