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Filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj Says He`d Prefer Working on Master 2 Instead of Leo 2
Updated on: 13 May, 2025 01:39 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Thalapathy Vijay and Lokesh Kanagaraj
In the ever-buzzing world of Indian cinema, director Lokesh Kanagaraj, the creative force behind hits like `Kaithi`, `Vikram`, and `Leo`, has once again stirred excitement among fans. With discussions swirling about Thalapathy Vijay’s film `Jana Nayagan` potentially being his last, questions about sequels to his popular collaborations with Lokesh have been a hot topic. Surprisingly, the director has expressed a stronger inclination towards a different sequel than many might expect.
The filmmaker shared his keen interest in developing `Master 2`. “Only time can tell, and Vijay Anna has to decide. We can bring him in for a cameo, but I want to do Master with him. Everyone is waiting for Leo 2, but I want to do Master with him," Lokesh stated. This unexpected preference has certainly piqued curiosity.
Explaining his choice, Lokesh elaborated on why the world of `Master` and its protagonist, JD, call to him more strongly for a sequel. “I think there’s a part of that story which remains untold. It’s there in the first one without any conclusion. I just want to do that film. I personally like the vibe of JD very much. Leo is a strong character, and people love it, but if you personally ask me, I have a proper idea for Master 2, and he also knows it. But it’s all about timing – he now has other things he wants to achieve,” he said. With Vijay`s anticipated move into politics following `Jana Nayagan`, the materialisation of either sequel hangs in the balance, adding another layer of intrigue.
Also Read: Sai Pallavi`s Bold `No` to 623 Cr `Leo`: Substance Over Stardom
Interestingly, he mentioned that `Leo 2` is also part of his plans, though it might be conceptualised without the character of Leo Das. “After `Coolie`, I’ll start with `Kaithi 2`. I also have to do `Vikram 2` with Kamal Sir, but I haven’t finished writing it yet. Finally, it has to be `Leo 2`, but we must plan it without keeping Leo Das in mind,” Lokesh shared.
His immediate next, `Coolie`, starring the legendary Rajinikanth, is already generating significant buzz and is slated for release on August 14th. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Nagarjuna Akkineni, Upendra Rao, Soubin Shahir, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, and Reba Monica John. Adding to the excitement, Pooja Hegde is set to feature in a special musical number, and there are reports of Aamir Khan making a surprise cameo. The film`s music is being crafted by the acclaimed Anirudh Ravichander.
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan To Thalapathy Vijay, Who Are Biggest Tax paying Celebs Of 2023-24?
A Twist in Sequel Expectations: `Master 2` Over `Leo 2`
During a recent conversation with film critic Sudhir Srinivasan, Lokesh Kanagaraj opened up about his future projects, particularly those involving superstar Thalapathy Vijay. While fans eagerly anticipate a `Leo 2`, Lokesh revealed his heart is set on revisiting another of their successful ventures.The filmmaker shared his keen interest in developing `Master 2`. “Only time can tell, and Vijay Anna has to decide. We can bring him in for a cameo, but I want to do Master with him. Everyone is waiting for Leo 2, but I want to do Master with him," Lokesh stated. This unexpected preference has certainly piqued curiosity.
Explaining his choice, Lokesh elaborated on why the world of `Master` and its protagonist, JD, call to him more strongly for a sequel. “I think there’s a part of that story which remains untold. It’s there in the first one without any conclusion. I just want to do that film. I personally like the vibe of JD very much. Leo is a strong character, and people love it, but if you personally ask me, I have a proper idea for Master 2, and he also knows it. But it’s all about timing – he now has other things he wants to achieve,” he said. With Vijay`s anticipated move into politics following `Jana Nayagan`, the materialisation of either sequel hangs in the balance, adding another layer of intrigue.
Also Read: Sai Pallavi`s Bold `No` to 623 Cr `Leo`: Substance Over Stardom
Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU) and Other Ventures
Beyond potential Vijay collaborations, Lokesh also provided updates on his ambitious Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). He outlined a clear roadmap for his upcoming films. Following the release of Rajinikanth’s `Coolie`, Lokesh will commence work on `Kaithi 2` with Karthi. This will be followed by `Vikram 2` starring Kamal Haasan.Interestingly, he mentioned that `Leo 2` is also part of his plans, though it might be conceptualised without the character of Leo Das. “After `Coolie`, I’ll start with `Kaithi 2`. I also have to do `Vikram 2` with Kamal Sir, but I haven’t finished writing it yet. Finally, it has to be `Leo 2`, but we must plan it without keeping Leo Das in mind,” Lokesh shared.
His immediate next, `Coolie`, starring the legendary Rajinikanth, is already generating significant buzz and is slated for release on August 14th. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Nagarjuna Akkineni, Upendra Rao, Soubin Shahir, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, and Reba Monica John. Adding to the excitement, Pooja Hegde is set to feature in a special musical number, and there are reports of Aamir Khan making a surprise cameo. The film`s music is being crafted by the acclaimed Anirudh Ravichander.
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan To Thalapathy Vijay, Who Are Biggest Tax paying Celebs Of 2023-24?
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