Leo (also known as Leo: Bloody Sweet) is a 2023 Indian Tamil-language action thriller film directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and produced by Seven Screen Studio. The movie features Vijay in the lead role, alongside an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, Trisha Krishnan, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Mysskin, Madonna Sebastian, George Maryan, Mansoor Ali Khan, Priya Anand, and Mathew Thomas.
Part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), Leo draws partial inspiration from the film A History of Violence. The plot centers around Parthi, a café owner and animal rescuer in Theog, who finds himself targeted by gangsters Antony and Harold Das, who suspect him to be Antony’s estranged son, Leo.
The project was officially announced in January 2023 under the working title Thalapathy 67, marking Vijay’s 67th film as a lead actor. The film’s title was revealed shortly after. Principal photography began in Chennai in January 2023, followed by a schedule in Kashmir, with filming returning to Chennai before concluding by mid-July.
Leo features music composed by Anirudh Ravichander, with Manoj Paramahamsa handling cinematography and Philomin Raj managing editing duties.
Leo Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Lokesh Kanagaraj |
| Written by | Lokesh Kanagaraj, Rathna Kumar, Deeraj Vaidy |
| Produced by | S. S. Lalit Kumar, Jagadish Palanisamy |
| Starring | Vijay, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, Trisha Krishnan |
| Cinematography | Manoj Paramahamsa |
| Edited by | Philomin Raj |
| Music by | Anirudh Ravichander |
| Production Company | Seven Screen Studio |
| Distributed by | See below |
| Release Date | 19 October 2023 |
| Running Time | 164 minutes |
| Country | India |
| Language | Tamil |
| Budget | ₹250–300 crore |
| Box Office | est. ₹595–620.50 crore |
Leo Cast
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Vijay | Parthiban “Parthi” / Leo Das |
| Sanjay Dutt | Antony Das (Voice dubbed by Pudipeddi Ravi Shankar) |
| Arjun Sarja | Harold Das |
| Trisha Krishnan | Sathya Parthiban (Voice dubbed by Chinmayi) |
| Gautham Vasudev Menon | Joshy Andrews |
| George Maryan | Napoleon |
| Mysskin | Shanmugam |
| Madonna Sebastian | Elisa Das (Voice dubbed by Smruthi K) |
| Mansoor Ali Khan | Hridayaraj D’Souza |
| Sandy | Robber in Shanmugam’s gang |
| Priya Anand | Priya Joshy |
| Mathew Thomas | Siddharth Parthiban “Siddhu” |
| Babu Antony | Shekhar, Antony’s henchman |
| Janany Kunaseelan | Shruthi |
| Iyal | Mathi Parthiban “Chintu” |
| Mukhtar Khan | Bhawar Jetha, a police officer |
| Ramakrishnan | Gabby, Leo’s friend |
| Denzil Smith | Magistrate |
| Dinesh Master | Dinesh |
| Madhusudhan Rao | Shanmugam’s brother-in-law |
| Vaiyapuri | Astrologer |
| Punya Elizabeth | Sathya’s friend |
| Thavasi | Harold’s henchman |
| Jawahar | Veterinary Doctor |
| Maneksha | Jailer |
| Sachin Mani | Shruthi’s husband |
| Shanthi | Shanmugam’s wife |
| Santhi Mayadevi | Parthiban’s advocate |
| Muthu Krishnan | Press Cameraman |
| Pooja Fiya | Press Reporter |
| Leela Samson | Public Prosecutor |
| Dinesh Lamba | Divisional Forest Officer |
| Anurag Kashyap | Daniel (cameo appearance) |
| Maya S. Krishnan | Vikram’s aide (cameo appearance) |
| Kamal Haasan | Vikram (voice only) |
Review
Leo: Bloody Sweet delivers an action-packed cinematic experience with a gripping narrative and powerful performances. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the film is the third installment in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), blending intense action sequences with emotional depth.
Positives
✅ Vijay’s Performance: Vijay’s portrayal of Parthiban/Leo Das stands out, showcasing his versatility in emotional and action scenes. His dual persona adds depth to the film.
✅ Supporting Cast: Actors like Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, and Trisha Krishnan deliver impactful performances, enhancing the storyline.
✅ Action Sequences: The high-octane action scenes, choreographed with precision, keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
✅ Music & BGM: Anirudh Ravichander’s intense background score elevates crucial moments, especially during action sequences.
✅ Cinematography: Manoj Paramahamsa’s visuals beautifully capture the film’s thrilling sequences and emotional undertones.
Negatives
❗ Pacing Issues: The film’s lengthy runtime (164 minutes) might feel stretched in certain parts.
❗ Complex Narrative: Some audience members may find the LCU references and layered storytelling a bit challenging to follow.
❗ Limited Screen Time for Key Characters: Despite a stellar cast, some characters (like Trisha’s role) could have been explored further.
Overall Verdict:
Leo is a must-watch for action lovers and Vijay fans. With intense drama, powerful performances, and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s signature storytelling, the film blends commercial elements with a compelling narrative. While the pacing may test patience in parts, the thrilling climax and gripping action compensate for it.
⭐ Rating: 4/5
🎯 Final Word: A “bloody sweet” addition to the Lokesh Cinematic Universe that packs both action and emotion!
