National multiplex chains won’t release Leo’s Tamil and Hindi versions in West, North and East India; first show in the country to be played in Gandhinagar at 12:05 am : Bollywood News

Thalapathy Vijay’s next film, Leo, will hit screens two days from now, on Thursday, October 19. The excitement is tremendous due to the superstar’s presence and also due to blockbuster filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj’s association as a director. The announcement video and trailers got a rocking response. Down South, the film is all set for a historic opening. Even up North, the advances in certain pockets and theatres is very encouraging. However, Leo will get a limited release in West, North and East India as the three major national multiplex chains – PVR, Inox and Cinepolis – have refused to release the action entertainer.

National multiplex chains won’t release Leo’s Tamil and Hindi versions in West, North and East India; first show in the country to be played in Gandhinagar at 12:05 am

An exhibition source told Bollywood Hungama, “Earlier, it had come to light that Leo’s Hindi version won’t release in the national chains as it’ll be out on OTT in 4 weeks. Since August 1, 2022, the multiplexes have gone back to the rule of allowing a film to release in their properties if it will be released on a digital platform after 8 weeks. In recent times, the Hindi version of Rajinikanth-starrer Jailer was also released only in non-national chains and single screen theatres as the makers wished to bring it out on an OTT platform in 4 weeks.”

The source continued, “However, the multiplexes allowed the original version to be released in their theatres despite the 4-week rule. With Leo, they have made an exception. They asked the makers to follow the eight-week rule. When they declined, the national chains made it clear that they wouldn't be able to release the much-awaited film.”

The source remarked, “Interestingly, PVR, Inox and Cinepolis are releasing Leo down South in the original Tamil version.” Another source said, “The makers of Leo asked for 80% share. This is also not acceptable. Nevertheless, the discussions are on and hopefully, the matter will be resolved soon.”

Meanwhile, Leo won’t have midnight or early morning shows in Tamil Nadu due to a government rule. Amusingly, the first show of Leo will take place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, that too in the Hindi version. Sanelite Cinemas will screen Leo at 12:05 am.

Also Read: Rajinikanth gives his best wishes to Thalapathy Vijay and Lokesh Kanagaraj for Leo: “I wish the film great success”