Leo, starring Thalapathy Vijay, is the most criticized film of Lokesh Kanagaraj’s career. The flashback portions received significant flak, which prevented the film from reaching its full potential. Many also commented that the director forcefully tried to establish a connection with the LCU (Lokesh Kanagaraj Cinematic Universe) by including the character of Constable Napoleon from Kaithi.
Addressing the criticism, Lokesh Kanagaraj said, “The Leo character requests a Tamil-speaking police officer who has achieved something big. If you remember clearly, Napoleon’s (played by George Maryan) picture is published in the newspaper at the end of Kaithi. Not Dilli (Karthi in Kaithi) but Napoleon will be credited with the drug bust after killing the villains.”
Lokesh added, “Upon seeing Napoleon, Leo gets surprised. He calls Gautham Menon and inquires about him. I added this element to bring some fun into the proceedings. I think a lot before doing something. I also take the opinion of my associate directors, who have been with me since my first film. Only if I get a unanimous response do I include such aspects. I won’t add anything forcefully.”