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New Straits Times
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: 'Thug Life' poised to steal the show
AFTER almost four decades, Tamil cinema giants Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam have reunited for 'Thug Life', a gangster epic that opened in cinemas nationwide yesterday. (June 5). Renowned for their 1987 classic 'Nayagan', the two return with a film that blends stylised action with deep emotional stakes, aiming to resonate with both long-time fans and a new generation of moviegoers. BROTHERHOOD AND BETRAYAL 'Thug Life' tells the story of brothers Sakthivel (played by Kamal) and Manickam (Joju George), who rise from poverty to rule the criminal underworld. Their bond is tested when Sakthivel rescues a mysterious boy. The empire begins to fracture as this act of compassion triggers deep insecurities in Manickam, leading to an assassination attempt on Sakthivel. In retaliation, Sakthivel returns with a mission to dismantle the very world he helped build. STAR POWER The film also stars Silambarasan TR, who shares screen space with Kamal Haasan for the first time, lending fire and flair to a pivotal role in the power struggle that unfolds between rival gangs. Meanwhile, Trisha Krishnan plays a woman caught between family loyalty and survival, emotionally anchoring the film. Joju, fresh from a lauded performance in Karthik Subburaj's neo-noir 'Retro', portrays Manickam with layered menace and moral erosion. With Mani at the helm, the film is co-written by him and Kamal, and produced by Red Giant Movies and Raaj Kamal Films International. For Malaysian audiences, DMY Creation — founded by Datuk Mohamed Yusoff — is the film's distributor bringing it to the big screen. CONTEMPORARY APPEAL Speaking at a recent fan meet-and-greet at Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Kamal said the title 'Thug Life', popularised by the late American rapper Tupac Shakur, was chosen to reflect both the film's theme and its contemporary appeal to the Gen Z audience. "The title speaks to the younger generation. But at its heart, this is still a story of ideology, loyalty and consequence," he said. He also praised the contributions of his Malaysian fanbase, calling them an extension of his family. "My love and respect for my Malaysian fans has never diminished. "In my 44-year career, their support has always been close to my heart. You all are just like my extended family who live here, as compared to those in India." He said 'Thug Life' was built with cutting-edge tools, including AI-assisted script development, de-ageing effects and advanced VFX. While the AI-enhanced writing tools helped polish character arcs and complex moral dilemmas, the de-ageing technology seamlessly renders Kamal into past timelines, offering a spectral reminder of Velu Naicker from 'Nayagan'. Visual effects, crowd simulation and real-time lighting engines are set to make 'Thug Life' a spectacle of cinematic realism meets stylised grandeur. "As technicians, we've evolved. We wanted to go beyond 'Nayagan' and embrace new technologies to meet today's audience expectations," he said. A.R. Rahman's score for the film has been described as emotionally rich, sonically unforgettable and musically bold, uniquely blending nostalgia with a fresh, new sound. PUSHING BOUNDARIES Kamal acknowledged that comparisons to 'Nayagan' were inevitable, but expressed confidence in the film's merit. "It is always a challenge to live up to the success of 'Nayagan'. But with 'Thug Life', Mani and I believe we have pushed our boundaries further. We expect it to surpass the 'Nayagan' we worked on four decades ago," he assured fans. "The demography has expanded, and we, as technicians, I as an actor, and he (Mani) as a director, have evolved over time. "Our first challenge was always to surpass the stupendous success of 'Nayagan'." Reaffirming his commitment to loyal fans, he said: "Ultimately, it comes down to the fans. Their love made us who we are, and we hope they'll embrace this film the same way. "We believe we have upped the game with 'Thug Life'. It is our work, love and respect for our work, our industry and the fans. "We hope fans will like it as much for the effort we have put in. It is now in their hands to judge our work." With its ambitious blend of action, emotion, and technical innovation, 'Thug Life' is poised to be a significant film, potentially marking a new milestone for its creators and the Tamil film industry.
India.com
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Thug Life Twitter review: Netizens feel cheated after watching Kamal Haasan's film, say 'Outdated, Mirzapur ka...'
Thug Life Twitter Review: Kamal Haasan's most anticipated movie has finally been released on June 5, and fans are going crazy after watching the first day-first show. Directed by Mani Ratnam and produced by Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies, Thug Life has generated a social media buzz with all kinds of reviews, mostly mixed. While fans of Haasan and Ratnam have applauded the performances, a section of the audience felt cheated by the predictable plot. Netizens also compared the storyline of Thug Life to Mirzapur and Paatal Lok. Thug Life also features Silambarasan, Trisha Krishnan, Abhirami, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Nassar, Ali Fazal, Rohit Saraf and Baburaj. It marks the reunion of Haasan and Ratnam after their 1987 film Nayakan. One of the users who watched the morning show of Thug Life , said, 'At the end of first half, felt the movie is a rehash & a simpler form of Mirzapur & Paatalok series.. Kamal & STR chemistry is the only thing that holds the film to some extent. #Thuglife.' Another user said, '1st Half Felt like ManiRatnam Film. 2nd Half Felt Like Siruthai Kutty Film'. The third user said, 'Average film. One-time watch. Boring at times and lacks grip.' Here are the reactions on Thug Life movie: #ThugLife #ThugLifeFDFS #ThuglifeReview — Manikandan (@Manikandangtb) June 5, 2025 #ThugLifeReview 1st Half Felt like ManiRatnam Film 🔥👌 2nd Half Felt Like Siruthai Kutty Film 😭 — Se7en™ (@Msd7Universe) June 5, 2025 Failed attempts , screenplay is too vague , nayagan can happen only once , this is such a below par work from both #KamalHaasan and #ManiRatnam , what the hell is Trisha role man , worst One word verdict : gone case #ThugLifeReview #ThugLife — Peace only bro (@peaceonlybro) June 4, 2025
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Thug Life: Tamil Nadu Govt Allows Early Morning Release Amid Kamal Haasan's Language Row
Last Updated: 'Thug Life' is a joint production of Raaj Kamal Films International and Mani Ratnam's Madras Talkies, and will be distributed by Red Giant Movies. The Tamil Nadu government on Wednesday granted permission to the makers of 'Thug Life', the much-anticipated film by veteran filmmaker Mani Ratnam and superstar Kamal Haasan, to hold special early morning screenings on the day of its release — Thursday, June 5. The decision was made following a formal request submitted by Raaj Kamal Films International, Kamal Haasan's production house backing the movie. According to the government's order, the film will be allowed to have five shows on the day of release, with the first show beginning at 9 a.m. on Thursday and the last one concluding by 2 a.m. on Friday. Special screenings outside the standard time slots are typically granted to big-budget or high-profile films in Tamil Nadu, particularly when led by popular stars or renowned filmmakers. The announcement, however, comes at a time when 'Thug Life' is facing controversy over a statement made by Kamal Haasan during the film's audio launch. The actor-politician claimed that 'Kannada is born out of Tamil," a remark that sparked strong reactions in Karnataka. The Karnataka High Court recently suggested that Kamal issue an apology, but the star has refused to do so. However, the superstar wrote a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday stating that the row over his remarks on the origins of the Kannada language is a result of a misunderstanding. In his letter, Kamal Haasan also maintained that he is against the dominance of one language over another. As a result of the actor's refusal to issue an outright apology, the film's release in Karnataka has been postponed indefinitely. Despite the controversy, 'Thug Life' is one of the most anticipated Tamil films of the year. The project marks the reunion of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after nearly four decades, following their legendary 1987 collaboration 'Nayakan', considered a milestone in Indian cinema. The gangster drama features a star-studded cast, including Silambarasan T.R. in a key role, alongside Trisha, Nasser, Joju George, Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Sanya Malhotra, and Ali Fazal. The music for the film has been composed by Academy Award-winner A.R. Rahman, further adding to the excitement around the release. 'Thug Life' is a joint production of Raaj Kamal Films International and Mani Ratnam's Madras Talkies, and will be distributed by Red Giant Movies. With high expectations from fans and film critics alike, the movie's performance at the box office — particularly in Tamil Nadu — will be closely watched as it hits the screens tomorrow. First Published:
Hans India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
‘Vishwada Nayaka' ‘Thug Life' unveiled with powerful impact
Universal Hero Kamal Haasan and master filmmaker Mani Ratnam's much-anticipated gangster action drama Thug Life is all set to hit the big screens on June 5. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Silambarasan (Simbu), Ashok Selvan, Trisha Krishnan, and Abhirami, the film boasts music by Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman. After impressing audiences with three previously released tracks, the makers have now unveiled the fourth single, Vishwada Nayaka. The song gives a gripping portrayal of Kamal Haasan's enigmatic character, enriched by Rahman's grand orchestration and impactful musical arrangement. Lyricist Anantha Sriram's poignant verses beautifully explore the essence of Kamal Haasan's character, along with key female leads Trisha and Abhirami. Adding a contemporary touch, Prashanth Venkat's energetic rap verse is a standout, while vocals by Alexandra Joy carry the emotional weight of the song. AR Amin's vibrant rap elevates the energy even further. Visually, the track is a treat, showcasing Kamal in multiple striking avatars that underline the film's grandeur. Thug Life is jointly produced by Raj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies. The Telugu version is being released in a grand manner by Shreshth Movies and Sudhakar Reddy. With its music creating a strong buzz and Kamal's charismatic screen presence, the anticipation for Thug Life is reaching new heights.
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Ali Fazal: It's not every day you get to work alongside legends like Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan
Saying yes to Thug Life was a no-brainer for Ali Fazal, as it meant that he would be collaborating with veterans like Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan. As per an official press note, Ali said, "There are some calls you get in your life that you know instantly are meant to change the course of your journey — this was one of them. When you hear the name Mani Ratnam, you don't just think of cinema — you think of legacy; you think of storytelling that's transcendent, timeless, and deeply rooted in human emotion. I didn't have to think for a moment before saying yes to Thug Life." Ali Fazal is undoubtedly thanking his stars and fortune for receiving the opportunity to work in Thug Life. "A Mani Ratnam film isn't something you get offered every day, and certainly not alongside someone as iconic as Kamal Haasan. The fact that this project brings together talent from across the Indian film industries in multiple languages makes it even more special. It's the kind of ambitious, large-scale storytelling I've always wanted to be part of. I feel incredibly honoured and excited to step into this universe.' Thug Life's extended ensemble cast comprises Trisha, Silambarasan, Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Nassar, Joju George, Mahesh Manjrekar, Tanikella Bharani, Vadivukkarasi, Chinni Jayanth, Vaiyapuri, Bagavathi Perumal, Baburaj, Rohit Saraf, Arjun Chidambaram, Chetan, and Rajashri Deshpande. Thug Life marks Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan's reunion after 36 years since their hit outing, Nayakan. The technical crew of Thug Life features cinematographer Ravi K Chandran, music director AR Rahman, editor Sreekar Prasad and action directors Anbariv. The film is a co-production between Udhayanidhi's Red Giant Movies, Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Film International, and Mani Ratnam's Madras Talkies. Ali Fazal, last seen in Khufiya, also has Anurag Basu's Metro... In Dino and Lahore 1947 in various stages of production.
