Lokesh Kanagaraj Upcoming Movies
Lokesh Kanagaraj has several major upcoming movies, particularly within his Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), as well as notable standalone projects. Confirmed and widely reported upcoming films include:
- Coolie (2025): This is Lokesh Kanagaraj’s next directorial after ‘Leo’, starring Rajinikanth, the Trailer is already out now, The movie is set to release on 14 August 2025.
- Kaithi 2: The sequel to the blockbuster “Kaithi,” also directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj; this film is in pre-production and will continue the LCU storyline.
- Benz: An LCU film but not directed by Lokesh himself (director: Bakkiyaraj Kannan). Lokesh is credited as writer and presenter. The film is currently filming, with Raghava Lawrence starring and Nivin Pauly as antagonist.
- Untitled Rolex Film: Focused on Suriya’s character Rolex from the LCU. The film is might be in development with Lokesh attached as director and writer.
- Vikram 2 (or Vikram Returns): Planned as a continuation of the Kamal Haasan-starrer “Vikram” (2022) and part of the LCU. It is in the early stages of development.
- Untitled Movie with Arun Matheswaran and an untitled project with Aamir Khan have also been referenced among his upcoming works, but details remain unannounced.
Most of these are part of the LCU, which is planned to significantly expand in the coming years, as per direct statements from Lokesh Kanagaraj. Release schedules may shift since multiple productions are still in development or pre-production phases.
Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU) Future
The Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU) is expanding through a carefully structured, multi-phase plan involving sequels, spin-offs, and the introduction of new characters and film partnerships:
- Structured Roadmap: Lokesh Kanagaraj has envisioned the LCU to unfold over seven or eight films. The universe began with “Kaithi,” “Vikram,” and “Leo” as foundational entries. The next films described as “two basements” will further build the world, with a sixth film serving as a pre-climax, and the seventh or eighth entry bringing the saga to a close.
- Confirmed Films: Upcoming key titles include “Kaithi 2” (a direct sequel to the original and central to the LCU), “Vikram 2” (planned as the universe’s conclusion), and a standalone film about Suriya’s character, Rolex. “Benz,” featuring Raghava Lawrence, has also been confirmed as part of the LCU even though it will be directed by Bakkiyaraj Kannan with Lokesh as writer and presenter.
- Cancelled/Changed Plans: A sequel to “Leo” was initially considered, but with Thalapathy Vijay’s retirement from films, “Leo 2” is unlikely; if it were to happen, it would have concluded the LCU, otherwise, that role will go to “Vikram 2”.
- Spin-Offs and Short Films: Additional content includes spin-off series (such as those focused on Napoleon from “Kaithi” and Agent Tina from “Vikram”) that will be directed by Lokesh’s assistants and a short-film titled “Chapter Zero – The Origin of LCU,” which acts as a prequel explaining the universe’s beginnings.
- Character Expansion: Lokesh has stated intentions to introduce a strong female protagonist and other new characters in future installments, aiming to diversify the LCU’s cast and stories.
- World-Building and Continuity: Characters and storylines from previous entries will appear in upcoming films, ensuring narrative interconnection such as Dilli (Karthi) in “Kaithi 2,” Anbu’s continuing story, and the evolution of recurring antagonists and spin-off roles.
- Creative Leadership: While Lokesh will personally direct major sequels and certain spin-offs (like the Rolex film), he is also expanding the universe by serving as writer and producer on projects helmed by other directors, starting with “Benz”.
This expansion strategy draws inspiration from Hollywood franchises but is tailored for Tamil cinema, focusing on coherent storytelling, character progression, and collaborative filmmaking. The future of the LCU is thus both mapped out and dynamic, adapting as cast availability and audience interest dictate.
The tickets for Coolie are available on BookmyShow and District.
Stay tuned to AbsoluteCinema.in for more updates, reviews, and detailed box office reports.