Rajinikanth x Kamal Haasan: Is Nelson Dilipkumar helming the film in place of Lokesh Kanagaraj?

Superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan recently confirmed that they will be reuniting on the silver screen after four decades. While initially Lokesh Kanagaraj was reported to lead the project, it now appears that the veteran star has decided to go ahead with Jailer director Nelson Dilipkumar.

Is Nelson ready to direct Dilipkumar Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan?

According to a report in Valai Pechu, Lokesh Kanagaraj had narrated a violent and intense story to Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. However, the Coolie actor was reportedly not interested in the subject and expressed his desire to work on a lighter story instead.

Apparently, director Nelson Dilipkumar narrated a script which impressed Rajinikanth. Although more details about the project are still awaited, Nelson is expected to begin pre-production after completing work on Jailer 2.

Reportedly, Rajinikanth is also likely to collaborate with director Sundar C for an action-comedy venture, while Kamal Haasan is currently working on his upcoming action film with the untitled duo. After completing their respective projects, both the veteran actors are expected to start work on their joint venture.

Interestingly, early reports also revealed that actor-director Pradeep Ranganathan was mulling over this ambitious project. However, the Love Today filmmaker is said to be currently focusing on his acting career.

Rajinikanth’s next film

Rajinikanth was last seen in the action drama Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film tells the story of Deva, a former daily wage laborer who has been living in the shadows for over 30 years.

After the death of his best friend, Deva learns that his friend had connections to a gold smuggling gang responsible for his death. The film follows Deva’s journey as he seeks revenge and uncovers the dark past that connects him to all this.

Looking ahead, the superstar will next be seen in the sequel Jailer 2, which is expected to release on June 12, 2026. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, the film will explore a new challenge faced by Tiger Muthuvel Pandian. The cast reportedly includes Nandamuri Balakrishna and Mithun Chakraborty in cameo roles, while Shiva Rajkumar and Mohanlal are set to reprise their previous roles.

Kamal Haasan’s work front

Kamal Haasan was last seen in the gangster action film Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam. Co-starring Silambarasan TR, the film received a lukewarm response critically and commercially.

Moving forward, the veteran actor will next be seen in an action entertainer, tentatively titled KH237, based on the script by Kumbalangi Nights fame Syam Pushkaran.

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