Leo Review

Leo - Lokesh Kanagaraj's Signature Style Meets Vijay's Stupendous Presence

Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj

Cast: Vijay, Sanjay Dutt, Trisha Krishnan, Gautham Vasudev Menon

Lokesh Kanagaraj, known for his previous work in "Kaithi" and "Master," collaborates again with Vijay in "Leo," a film that offers a heightened reworking of David Cronenberg's "A History of Violence." The director, however, maintains his distinct style throughout the movie, creating a universe that he is steadily building across his films.

Leo commences with two intense sequences – a brutal attack by gangsters on a government official's home and a terrorizing rampage by a spotted hyena in a small Himachal Pradesh town. Vijay, as the lead actor Parthiban, delivers a powerful entry, showcasing Lokesh Kanagaraj's signature style – rapid action sequences and a relentless pace.

The film's narrative revolves around Parthiban, who runs a coffee shop in Theog and lives seemingly uneventfully with his wife Sathya (Trisha Krishnan) and two children. When gangsters threaten his family, Parthiban retaliates with lethal force. Simultaneously, he rescues, tames, and befriends a spotted hyena, adding a unique layer to the storyline.

Lokesh Kanagaraj introduces a villain played by Sanjay Dutt, Antony Das, who claims that Parthiban is actually his son Leo Das, believed to have perished in a fire 25 years ago. The film delves into Parthiban's past and the threats that emerge, leading to a mix of drugs, the occult, and a host of goons targeting the protagonist and his loved ones.

"Leo" leans heavily on Vijay's stupendous screen presence, with the director allowing the star's charisma to take precedence over the narrative. The film is a genre exercise where style often outweighs substance. While it lacks intrinsic emotional depth, it compensates with flourishes aimed at thrilling the fans.

Vijay, who plays the submissive middle-aged husband, a loving father, and a fearless animal rescuer, excels in showcasing two distinct personalities with phenomenal panache. The film's success lies in the magnetism of Vijay, with his undeniable presence propelling the narrative forward.

Despite occasional moments where the heavy lifting seems to take a toll on Vijay, the film relies on his star power, offering ample style and action to satisfy fans. While "Leo" may lack the depth of emotional punch, it stands as a testament to Lokesh Kanagaraj's directorial flair and Vijay's commanding screen presence.

In conclusion, "Leo" may not be Lokesh Kanagaraj's best, but it is a cinemaatic creation with firm legs, born to run and deliver the expected thrills.