Thalaivar 170 is the working title of an upcoming Indian Tamil-language film written and directed by T. J. Gnanavel. It is produced by Subaskaran Allirajah under Lyca Productions. The film stars Rajinikanth, alongside an ensemble cast of Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Rana Daggubati, Manju Warrier, Ritika Singh and Dushara Vijayan.
The film was announced in March 2023, with the tentative title Thalaivar 170, as it is Rajinikanth's 170th film in the lead role. Principal photography commenced in October 2023. The film will have music composed by Anirudh Ravichander and cinematography handled by S. R. Kathir and editing by Philomin Raj.
Cast
Rajinikanth
Amitabh Bachchan
Fahadh Faasil
Rana Daggubati
Manju Warrier
Ritika Singh
Dushara Vijayan
Rakshan
G. M. Sundar
Production
Development
In May 2022, T. J. Gnanavel and Suriya were reported to collaborate for the former's next directional, after having a successful venture together with Jai Bhim (2021). On 2 November, coinciding 1 year of Jai Bhim, Gnanavel confirmed the reunion. Due to the actor's commitments to Kanguva, Gnanavel began working on another script, which he narrated to Rajinikanth, who was impressed by the director. On 2 March 2023, the project was officially announced by Lyca Productions, with the tentative title Thalaivar 170. The announcement stated that the music will be composed by Anirudh Ravichander and the shooting will commence after Rajinikanth wrapped up shooting for the films Jailer (2023) and Lal Salaam. Cinematographer S. R. Kathir, editor Philomin Raj and stunt choreography duo Anbariv were retained by Gnanavel, after they previously worked in Jai Bhim. Art director K. Kathir, make-up artist Pattanam Rasheed, costume designer Anu Vardhan were choosen as crew. Rajinikanth went through a look test in early-August. A muhurat puja was held on 4 October in Thiruvananthapuram with the presence of the cast and crew.
Casting
Rajinikanth was reported to be seen as a Muslim police officer in the film. In late April 2023, Suriya was reported to play a cameo role in the film. Vikram was reportedly approached to play the lead antagonist, which he declined playing. In early June, Arjun Sarja was reported to play an important role in the film. Amitabh Bachchan was reported to be a part of the cast, collaborating with Rajinikanth after 32-years; Hum (1991). Reportedly, Telugu actor Nani was approached to play a crucial role, however, he declined the role and suggested Sharwanand to play the role. In early August, it was reported that Fahadh Faasil was approached to play the lead antagonist. In early September, Manju Warrier and Rana Daggubati were reported to be a part of the cast. On 2 October, Dushara Vijayan and Ritika Singh were announced being a part of the cast. Manju Warrier was confirmed on the same day, while Daggubati, Faasil, and Bachchan were confirmed the day after. Bachchan was initially to make his Tamil debut with Uyarndha Manithan; however, due to issues between him and the producer, that film got shelved. Rakshan and G. M. Sundar's presence at the muhurat puja confirmed their inclusion.
Filming
Principal photography was scheduled to begin on the third week of September 2023 in Chennai, but ultimately began on 4 October in Thiruvananthapuram. The next schedule began in Tirunelveli on 11 October. The third schedule took place in Mumbai where scenes were shot with Rajinikanth and Bachchan.
Music
The film’s music and background scores will be composed by Anirudh Ravichander, in his fourth collaboration with Rajinikanth after Petta (2019), Darbar (2020) and Jailer (2023); maiden with Gnanavel.
Release
The film is scheduled for a theatrical release in 2024.