The anticipation surrounding Lokesh Kanagaraj‘s next directorial venture, tentatively titled ‘Thalaivar 171,’ featuring the legendary Rajinikanth, has reached fervent heights as speculations abound regarding the megastar’s portrayal in a negatively shaded gangster role. Set to commence shooting in April 2024, this rumoured transformation of Rajinikanth into an anti-hero has triggered immense excitement among fans, who deeply appreciate his charismatic portrayal of characters with shades of grey.
Rajinikanth’s ability to infuse charisma into negative roles, famously exhibited in his portrayal of Chitti in the ‘Enthiran’ series, has solidified his status as a versatile actor capable of captivating audiences across diverse characters.
Adding to the buzz, ‘Thalaivar 171’ is rumoured to be an unprecedented multistarrer, possibly involving actors from various film industries. Reports suggest that popular actor Sivakarthikeyan might also have a pivotal role in the film. The project, penned and directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj post his collaboration with Thalapathy Vijay for ‘Leo,’ is purportedly an independent creation diverging from the director’s established cinematic universe, the ‘Lokesh Cinematic Universe.’
Further enhancing the film’s allure, Anirudh Ravichander is set to compose the music, while the Anbariv duo will handle the action choreography, promising a potent combination of compelling storytelling and thrilling action sequences.
While casting rumours continue to circulate, names like Prithviraj Sukumaran, Mammootty, Raghava Lawrence, and Jeeva of ‘Kaaka Kaaka’ fame have been linked to potential roles. However, these remain unconfirmed speculations as the film is still in its nascent stages.
On Rajinikanth’s professional front, his recent appearance in the blockbuster ‘Jailer,’ directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, showcased his remarkable prowess. Currently, the superstar is set to grace his daughter Aishwarya Rajinikanth’s directorial venture, ‘Lal Salaam,’ in an extended cameo role. Simultaneously, he’s engrossed in filming for ‘Vettaiyan,’ an action-packed entertainer promising substantial content.
As the curtain rises on ‘Thalaivar 171,’ the film’s potential to create a cinematic extravaganza coupled with Rajinikanth’s portrayal of a negatively shaded character has piqued the curiosity and excitement of fans and industry enthusiasts alike, making it a highly awaited project in Indian cinema.
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