Buzz: Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan to reunite after 46 years; Lokesh Kanagaraj to direct gangster drama

Two of Tamil cinema’s greatest icons, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, are reportedly set to reunite on the big screen, which will mark a much awaited collaboration after an astonishing gap of 46 years. According to a recent report, the two legends are in discussions to headline director Lokesh Kanagaraj’s next film, which is expected to be a gritty gangster drama.Reported by Deccan Herald, the project will be backed by Kamal Haasan under his production house. Early buzz suggests the film will feature the actors as ageing gangsters whose pasts collide in a dramatic, violent reunion. The narrative is said to revolve around legacies, buried secrets, and an explosive return to the underworld which is a very 'Loki' style.Rajinikanth and Kamal last shared screen space in 1979’s 'Ninaithale Inikkum'. Since then, both have carved out distinct legacies, Rajinikanth becoming a mass superstar and Kamal acclaimed for his brilliant script choices and direction.The development comes at an interesting moment in Tamil cinema. Rajinikanth’s latest, 'Coolie', directed by Lokesh himself, opened big but received mixed reviews. On the other hand, Kamal’s most recent outing, 'Thug Life', struggled at the global box office. Kamal Haasan has also worked with Lokesh in the 2022 super hit, 'Vikram'. This new project could be a turning point for all three. On the positive side, unlike 'Indian 2' and 'Thug Life', even with mixed reviews, 'Coolie' is gaining momentum at the box office.The buzz about the reunion gained further momentum after Kamal penned a heartfelt message for Rajinikanth’s 50th year in cinema. Sharing his admiration, Kamal wrote on X:“Marking half a century of cinematic brilliance, my dear friend @rajinikanth celebrates 50 glorious years in cinema today. I celebrate our Super Star with affection and admiration, and wish #Coolie resounding global success befitting this golden jubilee.”