Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan Reunite for KH x RK After 47 Years
Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan's Long-Awaited Reunion
After nearly five decades, iconic actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are set to share the screen in the eagerly awaited film KH x RK. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, the project has generated significant excitement, thanks to its vibrant promotional material that hints at humor, nostalgia, and the legendary rapport between the two stars. Initially, fans anticipated that Lokesh Kanagaraj would direct the film, but he was unable to take on the project. Speculations suggest that the mixed reviews of his previous film, Coolie, may have influenced this decision.
Speculations Surrounding Lokesh Kanagaraj's Involvement
Was Lokesh Kanagaraj Set to Direct?
Following the lukewarm reception of Coolie, Lokesh Kanagaraj faced backlash, leading to questions about the future of his Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). Amidst this criticism, rumors circulated about his potential role in the Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan film, where he was initially a strong candidate for the director's chair. However, the production team ultimately decided to proceed without him. Initially, director Sundar C was slated to direct a film tentatively named Thalaivar 173, but he was later replaced by Cibi Chakaravarthi. This film is being produced under Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International.
Lokesh Kanagaraj Clarifies His Exit
Lokesh Kanagaraj addressed the speculation regarding his exit from the project, explaining that he had engaged in discussions to direct the film and spent over a month crafting a script focused on an action-driven narrative for the two legends. However, both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan expressed a desire for a lighter, comedic tone rather than another action film. Realizing that his vision did not align with their expectations, Lokesh opted to withdraw from the project. Subsequently, he began collaborating with Allu Arjun on a new film.
A Historic Collaboration in Tamil Cinema
Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan's Upcoming Projects
The reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan is a significant milestone in Tamil cinema, as the two last appeared together in the 1985 film Geraftaar, following their collaborations in classics like Apoorva Raagangal, 16 Vayathinile, and Ninaithale Inikkum. This film not only evokes nostalgia but also signifies a remarkable collaboration, with Kamal Haasan referring to it as a special reunion and director Nelson Dilipkumar calling it a historic honor. The film's technical team includes renowned cinematographer Rajiv Menon and editor R. Nirmal.
Current Projects of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan
Both actors are also busy with other projects. Rajinikanth is currently working on Jailer 2 and preparing for Thalaivar 173 with Cibi Chakaravarthi, while Kamal Haasan is involved in the Telugu sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD and his ongoing project Anbarivu.