(This article is authored by Alar) 

The Tamil film industry is buzzing with excitement as Thalapathy Vijay’s upcoming film Leo is gearing up for a grand release on October 19, 2023. The film, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, is a high-octane action thriller that features Vijay as a gangster who runs a chocolate factory in Kashmir. The film has an ensemble cast that includes Trisha, Arjun Sarja, Priya Anand, Mysskin, Gautham Vasudev Menon and Mansoor Ali Khan.

But the most intriguing addition to the star-studded cast is none other than Bollywood’s Sanjay Dutt, who will be seen playing Vijay’s father in the film. According to reports, Sanjay Dutt has been roped in for a whopping Rs 10 crore to essay the role of a gangster who shares a unique dynamic with his son. The actor joined the shooting of Leo in Kashmir in March and received a warm welcome from the team.

Leo is Vijay’s 67th film as a lead actor and his second collaboration with Lokesh Kanagaraj after Master (2021). The film is produced by S. S. Lalit Kumar under Seven Screen Studio and co-produced by Jagadish Palanisamy. The film has music composed by Anirudh Ravichander, cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa and editing by Philomin Raj.

Leo is said to be a pan-Indian film that will release in multiple languages, including Hindi. The makers are planning to go aggressive with the marketing in the Hindi belt, as they hope to cash in on Vijay’s growing popularity among the north Indian audience. The film is made on a budget of Rs 250-300 crore and Vijay has reportedly opted for a revenue sharing model to benefit the production.

Leo promises to be a riveting entertainer that will showcase Vijay and Sanjay Dutt in never-seen-before avatars. The film has all the elements of a Lokesh Kanagaraj film - elevation scenes, action blocks, inter character conflicts and high drama. The film is one of the most awaited releases of 2023 and fans are eagerly waiting to witness the father-son duo of Vijay and Sanjay Dutt on the big screen.