Nearly forty years after their iconic collaboration on Nayakan, the much-awaited cinematic reunion of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam has finally arrived with Thug Life. The gangster drama stormed into theatres on Thursday, sending waves of excitement through fans across Tamil Nadu.
Haasan’s return in a high-stakes narrative and Ratnam’s direction have created a potent blend of nostalgia and anticipation, drawing massive crowds to early screenings and packed shows. This film marks the return of two veterans of Indian cinema, rekindling the magic that once revolutionized Tamil filmmaking.
A Roaring Reception and Online Reactions
Social media was abuzz soon after the release, with netizens passionately expressing their opinions. Devoted fans hailed the collaboration between Haasan and Ratnam as a cinematic treat, celebrating the revival of a legendary partnership.
While Kamal’s performance was recognized for its intensity and commanding presence, it was Silambarasan TR (STR) who stole the spotlight in the first half of the film. Viewers described STR’s screen presence as electrifying, calling his performance explosive and his scenes a visual spectacle. One particular moment—the interval block—was especially celebrated, with fans calling it a “value for money” experience.
One praised Mani Ratnam's 'classy' direction.
However, not all feedback was glowing. Several moviegoers felt let down by the film’s second half, pointing out issues with pacing and execution. A segment of the audience remarked that the film, despite its strong premise and cast, dragged on with repetitive monologues and lacked Mani Ratnam’s usual creative brilliance. Critics shared their disappointment over what they felt was a predictable narrative arc, stating that the film had great potential but struggled to sustain momentum.
Thug Life Fever Grips Tamil Nadu
Across Tamil Nadu, the release of Thug Life became more than just a movie premiere—it was an event. Theatres witnessed long queues, loud cheers, and celebratory dances outside cinemas. Fans gathered in large numbers, underscoring Kamal Haasan’s unmatched fanbase and the cultural significance of his return to a genre he once defined. The Tamil Nadu government’s rare approval of five special screenings on release day—spanning from morning until the early hours of the next day—further highlighted the film’s high-profile status.
Controversy and Delay in Karnataka Release
Despite the success in Tamil Nadu, the film hit a roadblock in Karnataka. During the audio launch, Kamal Haasan made a remark linking the origins of Kannada to Tamil, which sparked backlash in Karnataka. Calls for an apology grew louder, and the Karnataka High Court even advised the actor to address the matter formally. While Haasan refrained from issuing a direct apology, he clarified his stance through a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. The controversy led to the postponement of the film’s release in the state, much to the disappointment of fans there.
Star Power, Ensemble Cast, and Musical Brilliance
At the core of Thug Life is a rich blend of action, emotion, and political drama—hallmarks of both Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam’s storytelling. The film features a stellar ensemble cast including Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, Sanya Malhotra, Ali Fazal, and Rohit Saraf. Haasan emphasized how the film is a collective effort and credited the entire team—from the crew to costume designers—for adding texture and depth to the narrative.
Another standout is A.R. Rahman’s music, which provides a soul-stirring backdrop to the drama. The score seamlessly complements the film’s emotional highs and intense moments, receiving widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. With its grand visuals, powerful performances, and evocative music, Thug Life may be polarizing—but it certainly has left a mark on the cinematic landscape.
Haasan’s return in a high-stakes narrative and Ratnam’s direction have created a potent blend of nostalgia and anticipation, drawing massive crowds to early screenings and packed shows. This film marks the return of two veterans of Indian cinema, rekindling the magic that once revolutionized Tamil filmmaking.
A Roaring Reception and Online Reactions
Social media was abuzz soon after the release, with netizens passionately expressing their opinions. Devoted fans hailed the collaboration between Haasan and Ratnam as a cinematic treat, celebrating the revival of a legendary partnership.
While Kamal’s performance was recognized for its intensity and commanding presence, it was Silambarasan TR (STR) who stole the spotlight in the first half of the film. Viewers described STR’s screen presence as electrifying, calling his performance explosive and his scenes a visual spectacle. One particular moment—the interval block—was especially celebrated, with fans calling it a “value for money” experience.
One praised Mani Ratnam's 'classy' direction.
#ThugLife
— Dh (@NaanPadamParpen) June 5, 2025
Mani Ratnam’s making still holds class, & Rahman’s music is solid. Performance from Kamal, STR, Abhirami,Trisha, Joju & others are top-notch. But the story is predictable & flat screenplay. Zero engaging moments throughout.
Massive expectations… TOTAL DISAPPOINTMENT pic.twitter.com/Z06C5vkKbw
#ThugLife first half review - Cult classic with banger interval portion 🔥
— Sekar 𝕏 (@itzSekar) June 5, 2025
The movie kicks off in style, follows a familiar path for a few minutes, and then picks up!
-#KamalHaasan delivers with sheer class 👑
- #SilambarasanTR as gangster steals the show with explosive… pic.twitter.com/WOGSU9LSfk
However, not all feedback was glowing. Several moviegoers felt let down by the film’s second half, pointing out issues with pacing and execution. A segment of the audience remarked that the film, despite its strong premise and cast, dragged on with repetitive monologues and lacked Mani Ratnam’s usual creative brilliance. Critics shared their disappointment over what they felt was a predictable narrative arc, stating that the film had great potential but struggled to sustain momentum.
#ThugLife had potential but ends up dragging.
— MR . AK (@anandhumanoj666) June 5, 2025
Kamal Haasan delivers a solid performance, but his never-ending monologues wear you down. Simbu handles his part well, but even that can’t rescue the sluggish, flat second half. The trademark Mani Ratnam spark? Nowhere to be found.… pic.twitter.com/KdA4aqrJiV
Thug Life Fever Grips Tamil Nadu
Across Tamil Nadu, the release of Thug Life became more than just a movie premiere—it was an event. Theatres witnessed long queues, loud cheers, and celebratory dances outside cinemas. Fans gathered in large numbers, underscoring Kamal Haasan’s unmatched fanbase and the cultural significance of his return to a genre he once defined. The Tamil Nadu government’s rare approval of five special screenings on release day—spanning from morning until the early hours of the next day—further highlighted the film’s high-profile status.
Controversy and Delay in Karnataka Release
Despite the success in Tamil Nadu, the film hit a roadblock in Karnataka. During the audio launch, Kamal Haasan made a remark linking the origins of Kannada to Tamil, which sparked backlash in Karnataka. Calls for an apology grew louder, and the Karnataka High Court even advised the actor to address the matter formally. While Haasan refrained from issuing a direct apology, he clarified his stance through a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. The controversy led to the postponement of the film’s release in the state, much to the disappointment of fans there.
Star Power, Ensemble Cast, and Musical Brilliance
At the core of Thug Life is a rich blend of action, emotion, and political drama—hallmarks of both Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam’s storytelling. The film features a stellar ensemble cast including Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, Sanya Malhotra, Ali Fazal, and Rohit Saraf. Haasan emphasized how the film is a collective effort and credited the entire team—from the crew to costume designers—for adding texture and depth to the narrative.
Another standout is A.R. Rahman’s music, which provides a soul-stirring backdrop to the drama. The score seamlessly complements the film’s emotional highs and intense moments, receiving widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. With its grand visuals, powerful performances, and evocative music, Thug Life may be polarizing—but it certainly has left a mark on the cinematic landscape.
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