The film “Leo”, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starring Thalapathy Vijay, Sanjay Dutt, and Trisha, is on track to be a success in Hindi, maintaining steady collections throughout its first week. The film’s 7-day total stands at Rs 16.00 crore, demonstrating resilience even after the major Dussehra Holiday. On its seventh day, a working Wednesday, “Leo” earned approximately Rs 1.40 to 50 crore.
Despite being boycotted by national multiplex players like PVRInox, Cinepolis, and Miraj, “Leo” has managed to pull in collections. This fractured release has limited the film’s prospects in Hindi; a wider release could have boosted the first week’s collections by at least 30 percent. The real value of this Rs 16 crore first week is likely closer to Rs 21 to 22 crore. The film has become Thalapathy Vijay’s biggest grosser in Hindi and is expected to continue its run until Diwali in cinemas nationwide.
Early trends suggest that “Leo” is holding up well on Thursday and is well-positioned for a strong second weekend in Hindi. Interestingly, the film’s first 11-day business in Hindi will exceed what some industry insiders predicted for the film’s first day, marking a significant victory. The potential for “Leo” to do well in Hindi was always there, but some failed to recognize it. Vijay’s last film, “Varisu”, earned Rs 1.5 crore on Sunday, indicating his reach in Hindi-speaking regions, especially with a well-packaged film that resonates with audiences.
If “Leo” maintains reasonable numbers for the next 10 days, it has a real chance of being a success story and earning an average rating. A lifetime total of Rs 30 crore seems achievable for this gangster-based action thriller. The inclusion of Sanjay Dutt and the Vikram Universe Factor have undoubtedly boosted “Leo”’s sales in Hindi. These numbers have been achieved with minimal promotions and subpar dubbing quality, indicating that a well-packaged and well-marketed Thalapathy Vijay film has an audience in Hindi and the potential to reach the half-century mark.
