5th November 2023, Mumbai: In its 17th day at the box office, Vijay’s starrer “Leo,” directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has embarked on a captivating journey. The Tamil action-thriller, which had a spectacular debut with an impressive Rs 64 crore, is now experiencing a subtle shift in its performance. Released on October 19, the film has been gradually navigating through its second week, with daily earnings fluctuating between Rs 2.15 crore and Rs 4.25 crore. While Friday saw a collection of Rs 2.15 crore, there was a slight uptick on Saturday, as “Leo” amassed Rs 4 crore, pushing its total collection to Rs 323 crore. Notably, the film achieved an overall Tamil occupancy rate of 29.22% on Saturday.
The Filmy Charcha Movie Review Of Leo:
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½
In the backdrop of Himachal Pradesh, “Leo” introduces us to Parthiban (Thalapathy Vijay), a peaceful coffee shop owner. However, a daring act of heroism unexpectedly plunges him into a web of peril. He unwittingly grabs the attention of two enigmatic figures, Antony Das (Sanjay Dutt) and Harold Das (Arjun). As the story unfolds, it raises questions about Parthiban’s connection to their past and the enigmatic Leo Das. From the very beginning, director Lokesh Kanagaraj keeps the audience engaged. The seamless transformation of Parthiban from a humble shop owner to a resolute protector of his family is both convincing and engaging. The action sequences in the café and marketplace, along with a nail-biting first-half climax, are indisputable highlights.
“Leo” excels in depicting familial bonds, particularly the dynamics between Thalapathy Vijay and Gautam Menon, adding emotional depth. It underscores that friendships can be as robust as blood ties. The snowy chase and an unexpected twist towards the end provide an exhilarating rush. The film breaks new ground with its Lokesh Cinematic Universe, an interconnected cast that generates excitement and adds an extra layer of intrigue, even if it occasionally feels disjointed. Thalapathy Vijay’s performance is the film’s undeniable cornerstone, resonating with every viewer as the ordinary man willing to risk it all for his loved ones. The “Naa Reddy” song and Anirudh’s background score enhance the viewing experience.
What Doesn’t Work:
Despite a strong start, the film falters with a somewhat predictable storyline, particularly in the latter half. The absence of unexpected twists makes the narrative somewhat linear. The backstory involving Leo, Antony, and Harold lacks depth and fails to evoke the expected emotions. Sanjay Dutt, despite his strong presence, is hindered by underdeveloped character arcs. While action sequences are a forte, their repetitiveness, especially in the second half, becomes somewhat tedious. The climax, in particular, falls short of the anticipated impact. Certain emotional scenes, like Vijay’s outburst at Trisha, lack depth, diminishing their intended impact.
Vijay and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Second Collaboration
“Leo” marks the second collaboration between the prolific actor Vijay and director Lokesh Kanagaraj, who previously joined forces for “Master.” The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Sanjay Dutt, Trisha Krishnan, and Arjun Sarja, among others. It serves as the third installment in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe, following “Kaithi” in 2019, starring Karthi, and Kamal Haasan’s “Vikram,” released in 2022. Notably, “Leo” has surpassed Prabhas’ “Adipurush” at the domestic box office and is now setting its sights on outperforming Rajinikanth’s “Jailer,” which accumulated a total of Rs 348.55 crore in India and a staggering Rs 604 crore worldwide.
Vijay’s Gratitude and Acknowledgment
At the success meet of “Leo” in Chennai, Vijay expressed his gratitude and shared his perspective on the film’s journey. The actor humbly stated, “You know, Thalapathy are soldiers taking orders from the kings. Kings will order, and the Thalapathy will accomplish the task. As far as I am concerned, you all are kings and I am your Thalapathy. I am a Thalapathy at your service. Nandri vanakkam.”
Leo Cast
The film boasts an ensemble cast, including Sanjay Dutt, Trisha Krishnan, and Arjun Sarja, among others. It serves as the third installment in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe, following “Kaithi” in 2019, starring Karthi, and Kamal Haasan’s “Vikram,” released in 2022. Notably, “Leo” has surpassed Prabhas’ “Adipurush” at the domestic box office and is now setting its sights on outperforming Rajinikanth’s “Jailer,” which accumulated a total of Rs 348.55 crore in India and a staggering Rs 604 crore worldwide.
FAQ
1. When was “Leo” released in theaters?
– “Leo” was released in theaters on October 19, 2023.
2. What was the film’s opening collection at the box office?
– “Leo” had an impressive debut with a collection of Rs 64 crore.
3. How has the film’s box office performance evolved in its second week?
– In its second week, the daily earnings of “Leo” have been fluctuating between Rs 2.15 crore and Rs 4.25 crore.
4. Who are the cast of “Leo”?
– The film “Leo” stars Vijay in the lead role and features an ensemble cast that includes Sanjay Dutt, Trisha Krishnan, and Arjun Sarja, among others.
5. What cinematic universe does “Leo” belong to?
– “Leo” is a part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe, with the previous films in this universe being “Kaithi” (2019) starring Karthi and Kamal Haasan’s “Vikram” (2022).
6. Whatbox office milestones has “Leo” achieved, and which films is it aiming to surpass?
– “Leo” has surpassed Prabhas’ “Adipurush” at the domestic box office and is now setting its sights on outperforming Rajinikanth’s “Jailer,” which accumulated a total of Rs 348.55 crore in India and a staggering Rs 604 crore worldwide.
By Yashika Desai