'Lokesh Kanagaraj must go through psychological evaluation' says petitioner in Madurai HC

Tamil cinema undoubtedly takes pride in its abundance of young, creative directors of whom Lokesh Kanagaraj is one of the most reputed. His latest film 'Leo' starring Thalapathy Vijay was a blockbuster. However, the film also received its fair share of criticism, mostly revolving around the second half which appeared to drag on.

Additionally, the use of violence in 'Leo' was also criticized. The director has now found himself in trouble after a petition was filed against him in the Madurai High Court. The petition filed by Raja Murugan (from Madurai's Othakadai) was heard on January 3. The petitioner claimed that Lokesh should be psychologically examined, adding that he is inciting violence in all his films.

He further mentioned that the film sets a bad precedent amongst the audience by portraying characters involved in illegal activities, excessive use of drugs, arms and ammunition, overspeeding and committing crimes with the support of police. In addition, the petitioner also demanded that 'Leo' must be properly scrutinized by the Censor Board and that Lokesh should be prosecuted under the Indian Penal Code for filming scenes that incite violence.

The case came up before Justices Krishnakumar and Vijayakumar but was adjourned as no lawyers appeared from Lokesh Kanagaraj’s side. 'Leo' made over Rs 600 crore worldwide but also drew criticism for glorifying violence as well as smoking. The film marks the second collaboration between Thalapathy Vijay and director Lokesh Kanagaraj after the 2021 action thriller 'Master'.

'Leo' features an ensemble cast including Trisha Krishnan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, Gautham Vasudev Menon and Mathew Thomas, among others. This is the third installment in the coveted Lokesh Cinematic Universe, which already features the Karthi starrer Kaithi, as well as the Kamal Haasan starrer Vikram.

The universe also includes other prominent actors like Suriya, Fahadh Faasil, Vijay Sethupathi, Arjun Das and many more who appear in crucial roles..