Leader(2010)
Leader is a 2010 Indian Telugu-language political drama film written and directed by Sekhar Kammula. It stars Rana Daggubati in his acting debut, alongside Richa Gangopadhyay, Priya Anand, Suhasini Maniratnam, Suman, and Subbaraju. The plot follows Arjun Prasad, a US-based businessman who becomes Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh after his father is assassinated, and his struggle to fight systemic corruption within his own party. The film was produced by AVM Productions and features music by Mickey J. Meyer. It received rave reviews from critics and was a commercial success, collecting a share of ₹10 crore at the box office. Film Companion listed it among the "25 Greatest Telugu Films Of The Decade". It was later remade in Hindi as Youngistaan in 2014. The film was released on 19 February 2010.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Zee5
- Theatrical Release
- 19 February 2010
- Director
- Sekhar Kammula
- Language
- Telugu
- Runtime
- 2h 52m
- Rating
- 6.7/10
Storyline
After his father, the Chief Minister, is killed in a bomb attack, Arjun Prasad reluctantly enters politics. He discovers that his own party is filled with corrupt politicians, including his uncle and cousin. Arjun must decide whether to play their dirty game or find a way to stay honest while holding the highest office in the state.
“One man. One promise. One chance.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Leader
Cast reunions in this film: Tanikella Bharani & Kota Srinivasa Rao (37 films together), Kota Srinivasa Rao & Subbaraju (10 films together), Tanikella Bharani & Harsha Vardhan (7 films together), Tanikella Bharani & Suhasini Maniratnam (6 films together), Tanikella Bharani & Subbaraju (6 films together), and Tanikella Bharani & Mickey J Meyer (5 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Leader' was inspired by a real-life political slogan used in Andhra Pradesh.
- Sekhar Kammula wrote the script after being inspired by youth movements in Indian politics.
- Rana Daggubati's character was originally planned for a different actor, but he was cast after his debut film.
- The movie's climax was shot at the actual Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly building in Hyderabad.
- It was one of the first Telugu films to openly criticize political corruption without using comedy.
- The song 'Naa Ishtam' was filmed in New Zealand, making it an expensive sequence for its time.
- Despite mixed reviews, the film developed a cult following among students and young voters.