Date: March 18, 2025
What Star Directors Can Learn from Lokesh Kanagaraj
Lokesh Kanagaraj: A Director with a 100% Success Rate
Lokesh Kanagaraj has established himself as one of Tamil cinema’s most successful directors, boasting a 100% success rate in his career. Beyond his box-office streak, he is known for his swift and efficient filmmaking process, ensuring that his projects are completed in record time.
His latest venture, Coolie, featuring an ensemble cast including Superstar Rajinikanth, Upendra, Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan, Shruti Haasan, and Soubin Shahir, was wrapped up in just 150-175 working days. This stands in stark contrast to several Telugu directors who take 2-3 years to finish a single film.
A History of Efficient Filmmaking
Lokesh has consistently maintained a fast-paced shooting schedule, regardless of the scale or star power of his films. Here’s a look at his film completion timelines:
- Maanagaram (2017) – Completed in 45 days
- Kaithi (2019) – Wrapped up in 62 nights
- Master (2021) – Finished in 129 days
- Vikram (2022) – Shot in 110 days
- Leo (2023) – Completed in 125 days
- Coolie (2024) – Wrapped up in 150-175 days
Even with a massive star cast, Coolie completed efficiently, showcasing Lokesh’s impeccable planning and execution.
Why Telugu Directors Should Learn from Lokesh
Many Telugu filmmakers take years to complete their projects, often delaying films due to improper planning and extended schedules. Lokesh’s work ethic proves that:
Strong pre-production planning leads to faster execution.
Efficient scheduling ensures films stay on track.
Tight storytelling and focused direction keep production streamlined.
Big-budget films can completed in under 200 days with the right approach.
Producers dream of working with directors who deliver quality films within a set timeline, and Lokesh Kanagaraj is the perfect example of that. Young Telugu directors should take inspiration from his disciplined filmmaking style.
With Coolie set for release soon, will more filmmakers adopt Lokesh’s fast and effective approach? Only time will tell!