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The Hindu
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Kamal Haasan interview: On ‘Thug Life', AI in cinema and his unrealised projects
In October 2024, during the promotional activities of Sivakarthikeyan-Sai Pallavi-starrer Amaran at Chennai's Raajkamal Films International (RKFI) office, the person missing from the thick of things was none other than the film's producer: Kamal Haasan. 'Avar US ku padikka poitaar (He has gone to the US to study),' said someone at his office, referring to the actor's decision to take off to the United States of America to study artificial intelligence. At 70, with multiple awards and films in several languages to his credit, Kamal Haasan might be widely regarded as one of the best actors in the country. He, however, still considers himself a 'student', which prompted his decision to set aside time to study artificial intelligence, curious about its use in his field of work. 'We are all part luddites. That's our problem,' says the actor, 'That's why I have the naivety to say that I want to learn AI. They kept asking me what exactly I want to learn – which is when I realised there are so many verticals in the film industry itself.' Kamal vouches to keep learning more – which, he hopes, will help him streamline his current film assignments and probably aid in executing his dream projects. 'We are still not good with scheduling and budgeting. We are not good with compartmentalising and delegating. AI will take away the chore in the job and the thinking person inside you has a better chance,' he says. In the US, Kamal Haasan visited the Perplexity AI headquarters, interacting extensively with its CEO, Aravind Srinivas. He also attended NAB 2025 in Las Vegas, which showcased how AI technologies could enhance storytelling and streamline production processes. 'I have never studied in a classroom, so my study continues,' he tells us. It did – on the sets of his upcoming film, Thug Life, as well. The film marks the coming together of Kamal Haasan and ace director Mani Ratnam after three decades; their last outing was Nayakan (1987), one of Tamil cinema's biggest classics. 'Both of us have evolved since then,' he says, 'He (Mani Ratnam) changed the landscape of Tamil cinema, which influenced filmmaking across India. I believe that the more ethnic you become, the more international you become – this is a quote that Singeetam Srinivasa Rao (director-screenwriter) is quite fond of, and I picked it up from him.' Kamal is probably referring to the globe-trotting action drama in Thug Life, in which he plays a gangster named Rangaraya Sakthivel, prompting fans to discuss a possible Nayakan link to the current film (Kamal's name in the 1987 film was Sakthivel 'Velu' Naicker). 'Thug Life will make you forget Nayakan. Otherwise, we are not doing our jobs well. Maybe chronologically you can say Nayakan and Thug Life, but out of appreciation, it should be the other way round,' says Kamal. He describes the film as an 'extension of his life'. 'I've been both; I have lived a life and have been a thug in my teens. The kinetic energy will push you to do wrong things when you're people in college do it. I've never been to college, so I might have just been a cruder thug. I'm not proud of it, though.' Thug Life has music by AR Rahman, whose music is quite different from Ilaiyaraaja, Kamal Haasan's collaborator for a long time. What was the difference? 'With Ilaiyaraaja's songs, I was immediately able to say, 'Oh yes, I like this.' But it was different with Rahman. I remember listening to 'Kappaleri Poyachu' from Indian (1996)for the first time. I just shrugged, because it was just him singing with a beatbox. But when I saw the final version of the song, ending with 'Saare Jahaan Se Acha'... it blew my mind,' recalls Kamal, who believes that his music should be classified as 'slow nectar' than 'slow poison'. Debuting as a child actor in Kalathur Kannama (1960) when he was just five, Kamal Haasan has acted with generations of actors – from the late thespian Sivaji Ganesan to Silambarasan. Considering his vast experience in front of the camera, did he give his Thug Life co-stars Silambarasan, Ashok Selvan and Trisha an acting tip or two? 'My guru was K Balachander (late director), but he did not teach me. He gave me an opportunity and in conversation, I picked up skills. That's how it should be done.' While the actor's upcoming roster suggests more adrenaline-pumping moments – he has a film with stunt masters-turned-directors Anbariv scheduled next – there is also a growing clamour among fans for Kamal to return to the comedy genre, for which he successfully teamed up with the late comedian-writer Crazy Mohan on many films, like Avvai Shanmughi and Panchathanthiram, among others. 'I don't miss him, because he has left a lot of him in me. Without work, we spoke with each other every day about everything under the sun, including ideologies, puranas and yayatis,' recalls Kamal Haasan. So, will a comedy subject surface sometime soon? 'Humour is not fast food. You must add so many condiments and serve,' he says. Post Thug Life, the promotions of which are keeping him busy at the moment, Kamal Haasan will move on to other projects. Other than his immediate film commitments, the actor-director also wishes to explore ways to execute his unrealised projects, such as Marmayogi, Sabaash Naidu and Marudhunayagam. Malayalam actor Joju George recently mentioned that Kamal Haasan's iPad has more than 400 scripts, something that the Thug Life actor smilingly dismisses as an 'exaggeration'. 'I might have around 30. And some more, which are not yet completed,' he reveals, 'There's one lying with me titled Suryadhaagam, which revolves around an established Godman and his ascent into a living God. It's a bit like Caligula (Roman Emperor), who did not die a good death. My story does not do into that, but it talks about the morbidity of man's hubris.'
Pink Villa
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
STR50: A period epic with a twist—is Simbu going feminine?
Silambarasan TR 's STR50 has been in the spotlight for some time, with the actor also turning producer. Now, he has shared details about his upcoming project, revealing that he will be playing a feminine character. In a conversation with director-actor KS Ravikumar at Behindwoods TV, the Maanaadu star said, 'I am playing a feminine character in the film, similar to what Kamal sir and Ajith sir have done before. I had already discussed it with Kamal sir earlier. As actors, we always hope to do something different constantly.' For those unaware, Silambarasan TR's period epic with director Desingh Periasamy was originally announced as STR48. The film was to be produced by Kamal Haasan under his banner Raaj Kamal Film International (RKFI) but faced significant delays. In the same conversation, Kamal Haasan revealed he had to step away from the project due to his commitment to Thug Life and the need to free up Simbu's schedule for a Mani Ratnam directorial. Now, STR will take on the role of producer for the film, with Yuvan Shankar Raja composing the music. Talking about Thug Life, the upcoming gangster action period film stars Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan as father and son. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the story follows Rangaraaya Sakthivel, a gangster who, with his brother, rescues and raises a young boy named Amaran. Later, the aging gangster is presumed dead but returns amid suspicions that Amaran wanted him out of the mafia. Fueled by rage, Rangaraaya Sakthivel aims to settle the score, sparking a deadly game between the two. Starring Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan, the film also features an ensemble cast including Trisha Krishnan, Abhirami, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, and more in key roles. This project marks the reunion of Haasan and Mani Ratnam since their first collaboration, Nayakan (1987), with both co-writing the screenplay. Looking ahead, Silambarasan is set to star in his next film, tentatively titled STR49, with Dragon fame Kayadu Lohar as the female lead.
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Trisha Krishnan's bold moves in 'Sugar Baby' song from 'Thug Life' leave internet in awe; fans ask, 'who's the sugar daddy — Kamal Haasan or Silambarasan?'
1 2 The second single from ' Thug Life ' is finally out, and it's already creating a stir online. The song ' Sugar Baby ', featuring Trisha Krishnan in a never-seen-before bold and sizzling avatar, is taking the internet by surprise. Viewers have not hesitated to poke fun at her apparent connection with Silambarasan TR and Kamal Haasan in the film. Trisha's bold moves in 'Sugar Baby' watch the song here: Sugar Baby - Lyrical | Thug Life | Kamal Haasan | Mani Ratnam | STR | Trisha | AR Rahman | RKFI | MT The track, composed by AR Rahman for Mani Ratnam 's directorial venture, is receiving rave reviews from audiences. In the lyrical video, Trisha dazzles in a stunning white saree paired with chic pearl chokers. She delivers an irresistible performance alongside background dancers and is also seen singing the track in a recording studio. Kamal Haasan appears sharing some affectionate moments with Trisha in the video, while Silambarasan TR also makes an entry at the venue where she is performing. The song is composed by the Oscar-winning maestro A.R. Rahman, who also co-wrote the lyrics with Siva Ananth. The rap portions are performed by Shuba, while the main vocals are handled by Alexandra Joy, Shuba, and Sarath Santhosh. Social media reaction Social media users were quick to react to the video. One commented, 'Sugar varavendiya vayasula innum baby ah irukum Trisha ❤ (Trisha is a sugar baby at an age where she should be getting sugar [diabetes]).' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Keep Your Home Efficient with This Plug-In elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Learn More Undo Another wrote, 'Sugar baby Trisha... 🔥💖 Sugar daddy Kamal…' And one more reacted, 'Simbu be like: Intha song enaku thaana!? 😢 Mani Ratnam sir: Illa pa, unga Kamal daddy-ku 😂❤ (Real Thug Life) 🧬😂.' About Thug Life The first track from the film, 'Jinguchaa', had already set the tone with its upbeat vibe. That song features Silambarasan TR and Sanya Malhotra dancing amid a vibrant festive setting, alongside Kamal Haasan. 'Thug Life' stars Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR in prominent roles, with an ensemble cast including Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, and Joju George, among others. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Thug Life' trailer out: Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR's unexpected face-off gives fans goosebumps; netizens call it a theatre blast
The much-awaited trailer of Mani Ratnam 's Thug Life is finally out, and fans are unable to contain their excitement. Starring Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR in the lead roles, Thug Life is officially slated to hit cinemas on June 5 2025. In the trailer, Kamal is seen having an unexpected face-off with Silambarasan in the second half. watch the video here: Thug Life - Official Trailer | Kamal Haasan | Mani Ratnam | STR | AR Rahman | RKFI | MT | RG Kamal Haasan takes on the role of Rangaraya Sakthivel Naickar, a dreaded gangster whose life is saved by a courageous young boy named Amaran. Bound by fate, Rangaraya raises Amaran as his own. Initially, the trailer showcases their deep bond and mutual trust. However, things take an unexpected turn in the second half, as the father and son are now at war, and the story spirals into chaos. Their intense fight sequences, including a moment where Kamal appears to be choking in Amaran's hands, add to the film's gripping action appeal. At the same time, Trisha Krishnan appears to be playing Kamal Haasan's romantic interest, while Abhirami is seen portraying his wife. Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, Sanya Malhotra, Joju George, Nassar, and Pankaj Tripathi are also seen in significant roles. Joju George, in particular, has a fierce villainous appearance in the trailer. One fan reacted to the trailer:'1987 - Nayakan 🥵🔥 2022 - PS1 Intro Voiceover 🔥🥰 Now Thug Life... 🔥🛐😍 Mani Ratnam-Kamal Haasan combo never disappoints 😍💪🏻💯.' Another wrote, 'Ulaga Nayagan, STR rocking — theatre blast! 🔥🤯' And a third commented, 'Clean-shaven Kamal Sir looks like his younger Nayakan role — it's just awesome. Yet again, a film by Mani Ratnam!' This film marks the long-awaited reunion of Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan, following their celebrated 1987 classic Nayakan. The screenplay is co-written by the duo, with A. R. Rahman composing the music, Ravi K. Chandran behind the camera, and Sreekar Prasad overseeing the edit. The filmmakers have also confirmed that the audio launch of Thug Life will be held on May 24.
NDTV
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Audio Launch Of Mani Ratnam's Thug Life Postponed: "Art Can Wait, India Comes First," Says Kamal Haasan
Quick Reads Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. Kamal Haasan's film Thug Life postpones audio launch amid border tensions. The audio launch was originally scheduled for May 16, 2025. Haasan emphasized the importance of prioritizing national concerns over art. Chennai: Keeping in view the recent developments at the country's borders, the unit of director Mani Ratnam's Thug Life, featuring Kamal Haasan in the lead, on Friday decided to postpone the audio launch function of the film which was originally scheduled to be held on May 16, 2025. Actor Kamal Haasan issued a statement, which he shared on his X timeline. The eminent actor said, "Art can wait. India comes first. In view of the developments at our nation's border and the current state of heightened alert, we have decided to reschedule the audio launch of Thug Life, originally planned for the 16th of May." Statement from Kamal Haasan #Thuglife #ThuglifeFromJune5 #KamalHaasan #SilambarasanTR @ikamalhaasan #ManiRatnam @arrahman @SilambarasanTR_ #Mahendran @bagapath @trishtrashers @AishuL_ @AshokSelvan @abhiramiact @C_I_N_E_M_A_A #Nasser @manjrekarmahesh @TanikellaBharni … — Raaj Kamal Films International (@RKFI) May 9, 2025 The actor further said, "As our soldiers stand firm on the frontlines with unflinching courage in defence of our motherland, I believe it is a time for quiet solidarity, not celebration. A new date will be announced at a later, more appropriate time." Stating that at this time, our thoughts are with the brave men and women of our armed forces who stand vigilant, safeguarding our nation, the actor said, "As citizens, it is our duty to respond with restraint and solidarity. Celebration must make way for reflection." Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, features Kamal Haasan in the lead. The film will also feature actors Silambarasan, Trisha, Joju George, Ashok Selvan, and Abhirami in pivotal roles. The film's full-fledged audio launch was to take place on May 16. This apart, a musical event was also scheduled to take place in Australia and the entire Thug Life team was expected to participate in it. However, with the team now announcing the postponement of the audio launch event, it is not clear if the musical event in Australia too will take place as planned or if whether it will get postponed. Kamal Haasan plays a character called Rangaraya Sakthivel Naickan in this film, which director Mani Ratnam's production house Madras Talkies had described as "an epic tale of power, rebellion, and triumph." The film has music by A R Rahman and cinematography by Ravi K Chandran. It has editing by Mani Ratnam's trusted editor Sreekar Prasad and stunts by the stuntmasters, Anbariv.
