Lokesh Kanagaraj To Take A 6-Month Break Before Starting His Next With Karthi

Lokesh Kanagaraj has emerged as a significant figure not only in Tamil cinema but nationwide. Following the success of his recent film Leo starring Thalapathy Vijay, he is now preparing for his next project, with Rajinikanth in the lead role.

Thalaivar 171 will be Lokesh Kanagaraj’s sixth film and his first collaboration with Rajinikanth. It is described as a standalone project, distinct from the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). In a recent update, Kanagaraj announced a six-month social media break to concentrate on this upcoming project.

The upcoming film, tentatively named Thalaivar 171, is set to commence shooting in March or April 2024. In a recent development reported by News18, there are discussions about actor Raghava Lawrence potentially taking on the role of the antagonist in the movie.

Anticipated as a stylish action thriller, Thalaivar 171 is being produced by Kalanithi Maran’s Sun Pictures. Anirudh Ravichander is set to compose the film’s music, and the action sequences will be orchestrated by the renowned stunt duo, Anbariv Masters.

After Thalaivar 171, Lokesh Kanagaraj is directing the highly anticipated Kaithi 2 with Karthi. He is also working on a standalone film centred around the character Rolex, portrayed by Suriya. Following this, Kanagaraj is slated to helm Vikram 2 with Kamal Haasan, marking the conclusion of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). There are speculations about a potential sequel, Leo 2 in the pipeline as well.

Lokesh Kanagaraj expressed to Cinema Express, “With Rajinikanth sir, it has always been about the larger-than-life intro. When he does it, it is so satisfying. From kids to old people, everyone will start screaming. Without thinking about the logic of it all, we hoot. That’s something that he can do”.

Besides, Rajinikanth is set to make a cameo appearance in Aishwarya Rajinikanth’s directorial venture, Lal Salaam, starring Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth. Additionally, he is involved in TJ Gnanavel’s upcoming film, tentatively titled Thalaivar 170, featuring a star-studded ensemble including Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Manju Warrier, Dushara Vijayan, Rana Daggubati, and Ritika Singh, alongside the Petta actor.