Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha has admitted that one of the most disturbing sequences in his upcoming film Assi took a deep emotional toll on him. Speaking exclusively to SCREEN, Sinha reflected on how the graphic sexual assault scene was conceived and the discomfort he experienced while bringing it to life.
According to the director, the sequence was written instinctively in a single sitting at dusk. What began as a writing exercise soon turned into an intense creative experience. By the time he finished drafting it, night had fallen and he felt deeply unsettled. He described being disgusted with himself after completing the scene, unsure whether it had gone too far. Expecting criticism, he shared the draft with his co-writer, but was surprised when it was appreciated for its honesty and impact.
Sinha revealed that crafting the moment required him to access what he called the “dark depths” within himself. One specific shot, filmed from beneath a car, remains particularly haunting for him. He openly said he hates that shot, yet believes it was necessary to communicate the gravity of the crime without glorifying it.
The director emphasised that the scene was never designed for shock value. Instead, it emerged organically from the story’s emotional core. Even now, he admits that revisiting it is uncomfortable but he stands by its purpose and power.
