Nivin Pauly has officially started shooting for Benz, joining Raghava Lawrence in the much-anticipated fourth film in the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). The Malayalam star shared the news on his social media handles, confirming his role as “Twin Fish Walter,” a character first teased in a brief promo earlier this year.
Nivin Pauly Steps Into Lokesh’s Expanding World
Benz is directed by Bakkiyaraj Kannan, known for Remo (2014) and Sulthan (2021). This project is particularly significant because it is the first film in the LCU not directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj himself. Lokesh, however, remains closely involved as producer and creative supervisor, ensuring that the storyline fits seamlessly within the shared world established by Kaithi, Vikram, and Leo.
Raghava Lawrence headlines the film as the titular Benz, while Samyuktha has been cast in a key role. Fans have been speculating about the dynamic between Lawrence and Nivin Pauly’s characters, especially after early reports suggested that Walter may serve as the film’s antagonist.
Director Bakkiyaraj Kannan has spoken about the decision to bring in Nivin Pauly from the Malayalam industry, noting that actors from different regions bring “a unique energy and identity” to a story like Benz. This creative choice also reflects the LCU’s ongoing expansion beyond Tamil cinema, inviting a larger South Indian audience into its orbit.
Power Team Behind the Camera
Benz features a strong technical lineup. Music is by Sai Abhyankkar, marking his first major Tamil film score. Goutham George is in charge of cinematography, while Philomin Raj handles the editing. The art direction is led by Jacki, known for his detailed, realistic set designs.
The film is jointly produced by Lokesh Kanagaraj, Sudhan Sundaram, and Jagadish Palanisamy under the Passion Studios, G Squad, and The Route banners. Pradeep Boopathi serves as creative producer. Production began in Chennai in May 2025, with the initial schedule wrapping up in early June.
What makes Benz particularly exciting is its placement within the larger LCU timeline. While official plot details are being kept secret, industry buzz suggests that the story may connect to events that unfolded in Vikram and Leo, continuing Lokesh’s tradition of linking characters and storylines across multiple films.
Stepped in as Walter ❤🅱#Benz@Bakkiyaraj_k @Dir_Lokesh @Jagadishbliss @Sudhans2017 @GSquadOffl @PassionStudios_ @TheRoute @SaiAbhyankkar
[Statutory Warning: Smoking is injurious to health.] pic.twitter.com/Fs9auty41L
— Nivin Pauly (@NivinOfficial) October 16, 2025
Reports have also hinted at a special appearance by actor Ravi Mohan, who is expected to play an important supporting role. With its powerhouse cast and cross-industry collaborations, Benz appears ready to push the boundaries of the LCU further than ever before.
For fans, this film marks the beginning of a new phase for the cinematic universe, one where Lokesh Kanagaraj steps back from directing to guide the storytelling vision from behind the scenes.
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