21 October 2023, Mumbai: Thalapathy Vijay’s latest action-thriller, ‘Leo,’ is proving to be a resounding success at the box office. The film, which had an impressive opening, has now achieved a significant milestone by crossing the coveted Rs 100 crore mark in terms of collections.
Audience Eagerly Welcomes ‘Leo’
Thalapathy Vijay’s ‘Leo,’ directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, premiered in theaters on October 19 with high expectations from fans. Since its release, audiences have been captivated by Vijay’s exceptional performance and the star-studded cast that includes renowned actors like Sanjay Dutt, Trisha Krishnan, and more. The film was released in multiple languages, catering to a diverse audience across regions, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi. Following an impressive first-day collection, the film has continued its successful run at the box office, with early reports indicating that it earned an estimated Rs 36.00 crore in India on its second day. This achievement has propelled the film’s total collections to Rs 100.80 crore.
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.
Leo Becoming A Global Sensation
‘Leo’ is not only making waves in India but is also gaining international recognition. According to trade expert Ramesh Bala, the film has surpassed the $3 million mark in North America, signifying a remarkable triumph for Thalapathy Vijay. ‘Leo’ marks the second collaboration between Vijay and director Lokesh Kanagaraj, following their previous hit film, ‘Master.’ The screenplay for this action-packed entertainer was jointly crafted by Lokesh Kanagaraj, Rathna Kumar, and Deeraj Vaidy. The film features an ensemble cast, with Vijay, Trisha, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, Mysskin, Sandy, and Gautham Menon in pivotal roles. Supporting characters include Mathew Thomas, Mansoor Ali Khan, Priya Anand, and others.
Popularity of Thalapathy Vijay
The success of ‘Leo’ demonstrates the enduring popularity of Thalapathy Vijay and his ability to resonate with a diverse global audience. As the film continues to garner acclaim and further expand its collections, Vijay’s star power remains unmatched, setting the stage for his future endeavors in the world of cinema.
By Yashika Desai