Lokesh Cinematic Universe Expands: 'Benz' Joins In, ‘Kaithi 2’ Brings Anushka Shetty On Board

Lokesh Kanagaraj has revolutionized Tamil cinema with his ambitious Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), which kicked off with Kaithi and expanded powerfully through Vikram starring Kamal Haasan, and Vijay’s Leo. The LCU is now a powerhouse franchise in Indian cinema, connecting multiple films through high-stakes narratives and intense characters.

Breaking new ground, the latest entrant to the LCU is Benz, directed not by Lokesh, but Bakkiyaraj Kannan — the first filmmaker outside of Lokesh to helm a film in the universe. Featuring Raghav Lawrence in the lead and Nivin Pauly as the antagonist, Benz is shaping up to be an intense action drama, with music by Sai Abhyankar. Filming is currently underway.

As anticipation builds for Benz, fans are equally excited about Kaithi 2, set to go on floors by the end of the year. Lokesh is already working on the script, aiming to scale it up significantly. A major buzz surrounds the addition of Anushka Shetty, who is reportedly playing a fierce lady don — and Karthi’s wife — a character unseen in the first film. Her inclusion, reminiscent of Suriya’s game-changing Rolex cameo in Vikram, is expected to bring both star power and emotional depth, especially as it reunites her with Karthi after Alex Pandian. With new layers and expanding connections, the LCU is only getting bigger and bolder.