LCU (Lokesh Kanagaraj's Cinematic Universe) - A Deeper Look

JStreetS Ranger

2023-11-05 10:03

Hello Questers,

Today's thread is all about the new trend in  Indian cinema of multiverse concepts,

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LCU


Cinematic universes

have a long history in the world of film. While Marvel's MCU and DC's DCEU have popularized the franchise model, the concept dates back to the 1930s. During that time, Universal Pictures produced a series of horror films that introduced iconic characters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Mummy. These films collectively formed the Universal Classic Monsters franchise.


Over the years, we've seen numerous fictional shared universes, including Alien vs. Predator, The MonsterVerse, and The Unbreakable / Eastrail 177 trilogy.


In India,

we also have our own film franchises, such as Rohit Shetty's Cop Universe, the YRF Spy Universe, the Maddock Supernatural Universe, and the HIT Universe.


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Lokesh Cinematic Universe


What distinguishes the LCU (Lokesh Cinematic Universe) from its Indian counterparts is the intricacy and complexity of Lokesh's world-building.


On a surface level, it might seem like the story revolves around the events of three films - "Kaithi," "Vikram," and "Leo." However, when examined structurally, the narrative traces its roots back to the 1980s. To fully grasp this, we need to delve into the chronological understanding of the unfolding events.



The core of the LCU lies in a consistent theme.


While the three LCU films are packed with action and entertainment, they all revolve around a central narrative thread - the ongoing conflict between a group of vigilantes and a ruthless drug cartel led by Rolex. When Lokesh was asked to define the LCU,


he described it as "a high-octane cinematic universe where its heroes are vocal advocates for a drug-free society."


Lokesh Kanagaraj's latest release, "Leo," is making waves in the box office, and it's not just because of its star-studded cast or Anirudh Ravichander's music. "Leo" marks the third installment in Lokesh's Cinematic Universe, known as the LCU. While cinematic universes are not new to the world of film, what sets LCU apart is its complexity and intricate storytelling.


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Lokesh Kanagaraj Bank Employee to a Multiverse Director 


The Story So Far

The LCU trilogy began with "Kaithi," followed by "Vikram," and now "Leo."


Vikram

reveals the story of Vikram (Kamal Haasan), the former commander of the Black Ops squad's pilot batch. This narrative harks back to the events of a 1986 film of the same name and a mission gone wrong in 1991.


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Vikram Featuring Kamal Haasan


In "Leo,"

set in 1999, we discover that a tobacco company, Das and Co., is a front for a new drug known as Datura. Leo (Vijay), the film's protagonist, faces personal tragedies, but eventually, he changes his identity and starts a new life.


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Featuring Thalapaty Vijay



In 2009, "Kaithi"

introduces Dilli (Karthi), who was imprisoned. His story unfolds a decade later when he is released in 2019. Dilli, along with a group of allies, is entangled in a mission involving drug lords and vigilantes.

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First movie of LCU


The events in these films create a complex web of characters and interwoven timelines.


The Essence of LCU:

At the core of LCU lies the conflict between a group of vigilantes and a ruthless drug cartel led by Rolex. These films send a powerful message about a drug-free society, as described by Lokesh Kanagaraj.


The Future of LCU:

Lokesh's next project is a stand-alone film with Rajinikanth,


which won't be a part of the LCU. Following this, he plans to shoot "Kaithi 2," possibly a prequel that delves into the backstory of characters. Subsequently, "Rolex" may serve as both a prequel, exploring the rise of the cartel leader in the early '90s, and a continuation of the story from "Vikram." There are also hints of potential sequels for "Vikram" and "Leo."


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Superstar 


Conclusion

It's clear that Lokesh Kanagaraj is just getting started with the LCU, and fans can anticipate more thrilling stories to come. The future of this cinematic universe looks promising.


What are your thoughts on LCU ,and have you ever seen any LCU movies?


Please share your opinions in the comments section. 


Pc : Google



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