15 November 2023, Mumbai: Thalapathy Vijay’s action-packed film, “Leo,” has etched its name in Tamil cinema history. Within just 26 days of its release, the Lokesh Kanagaraj directorial has surpassed Mani Ratnam’s iconic “PS-I,” becoming the highest-grossing Tamil film in its home state. Despite a slight dip in collections, “Leo” continues to set unprecedented records, affirming its dominance in the box office realm.
Leo Tamil Nadu Box Office Collection
The journey to the top for “Leo” involved surpassing the lifetime collection of “PS-I,” which stood at Rs 213 crore nett in Tamil Nadu. “Leo” managed to slightly exceed this figure within its 26-day theatrical run, amassing an impressive Rs 213.05 crore (approx). Thalapathy Vijay, alongside co-stars Trisha Krishnan and Sanjay Dutt, has spearheaded the film to claim the coveted position of the highest-grossing Tamil film in Kollywood.
The Top Five Box Office Grossers in Kollywood
The report provides a glimpse into the hierarchy of box office successes in Kollywood. The top five include “Leo” at the pinnacle with Rs 213.05 crore, followed closely by “PS-I” at Rs 213.00 crore. Other notable films in the ranking are “Jailer” at Rs 189.50 crore and “Vikram” at Rs 180.50 crore. Intriguingly, two of these films are directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, forming part of his revolutionary Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU).
Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Cinematic Universe’s Influence
The emergence of “Leo” as a monumental success adds another feather to Lokesh Kanagaraj’s cap, as it cements his directorial prowess within the LCU. This unique South Indian film industry venture has not only redefined storytelling but has also produced two of the top five highest-grossing Tamil films. Kanagaraj’s impact on the industry is undeniable, and “Leo” stands as a testament to the director’s ability to captivate audiences and make cinematic waves
Leo’s Contribution to Tamil Cinema
Beyond its domestic triumph, “Leo” also secures its place as Thalapathy Vijay’s biggest film at both the domestic and global box office. With an impending Netflix premiere, the film’s theatrical run might conclude soon, but its impact on the Tamil Nadu film industry remains significant. “Leo” follows in the footsteps of industry hits like Rajinikanth’s “Jailer,” contributing to the rise and shine of Tamil cinema, reaffirming its power on the global stage.
By Yashika Desai