Leo

“Leo” is a 2023 Indian action thriller film directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj under the production of Seven Screen Studio. The film stars Vijay, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, and Trisha, and is based on the theme of A History of Violence and forms part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU).

Based in Himachal Pradesh, “Parthiban” (Vijay) is a calm animal rescuer and coffee shop owner who lives with his wife “Sathya” (Trisha) and two children. His quiet life takes a dramatic turn when he shoots a group of brutal men at his café in self-defense. This act becomes a media sensation, putting him in the limelight.

Distantly, crime lords “Anthony Das” (Sanjay Dutt) and “Harold Das” (Arjun Sarja), who have a drug empire posing as a tobacco company, learn about Parthiban. They think he is Leo Das, Anthony's son, who was thought to have died in a factory fire 20 years before. Desperate to find out the truth, they come to town with their goons, prepared for war.

Years back, Anthony's twin offspring, Leo and Elisa, took up the dirty work for their dad to keep things running smoothly in the business. Anthony, though a staunch believer in the occult, chose to sacrifice Elisa as advised by his astrologer, thinking that it would usher in prosperity in their tobacco empire. Enraged, Leo struck back by burning down Harold's drug stash, igniting an ugly war. During the commotion, Harold murdered Elisa, and Anthony killed Leo, who was assumed dead since then.

Parthiban denies he is Leo, but his combat skills and bravery only make the Das brothers more sure. When Parthiban battles to defend his family, his history starts to unravel, exposing startling facts. Is he indeed Leo, a brutal henchman who staged his death to leave behind his bloody history? Or is he merely a lookalike trapped in a fatal misidentification?

The film runs with high-energy action scenes, family drama involving emotions, and heated confrontations. While Parthiban fights the ruthless villains, the identity of Parthiban, past decisions, and the cost of violence are unraveled.

Coming out on October 19, 2023, “Leo” was a blockbuster hit and is streaming now on Netflix in various languages, making it a must-view for thriller lovers and action lovers alike.