The film stars Vinay Rajkumar in the titular role, alongside an ensemble cast including Mayur Patel, Naveen D. Padil, Yash Shetty, Kaajal Kunder, Medini Kelamane, Raviprasad Mandya, Kitty Sridhar, Shashidhar Bhat, Bala Rajwadi, Aruna Balraj, Sandya Arekere, and Shivu Kabbanahalli.

[6] Upon hearing the narration, Vinay was drawn to the film due to its touch on social themes, specifically communalism and women's abuse, so he agreed to do it.

[20] A Sharadhaa of The New Indian Express rated the film three out of five stars and wrote that "Pepe demands full attention as it navigates a complex web of storylines with an uneven narrative.

The film’s experimental editing and non-linear approach, including the black-and-white versus colour technique for past and present scenes, add flair but can disrupt the flow.

"[23] Shashiprasad SM of Times Now gave it two out of five stars and wrote, "Beyond appreciating Vinay Rajkumar's performance, the background score and the work of the action choreographers, Pepe is not an ordinary commercial entertainer.

Some of the action scenes are choreographed creatively, yet, the gruesome fights don’t leave a lasting impact because of the sheer absence of drama in the second half.

"[2] Sunayana Suresh of The South First gave it two-and-a-half out of five stars and wrote, "Pepe is worth watching for those interested in seeing the Kannada film industry explore new territory and support innovative projects.