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‘Thug Life’ Review: Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam Reunion Draws Mixed Public Reactions

Despite massive buzz and cinematic scale, Thug Life splits audiences; while some hail it as a stylish gangster drama, many criticize its outdated narrative and sluggish execution.

Thug Life, the much-anticipated action drama that reunites Kamal Haasan and director Mani Ratnam after 37 years, hit theatres on June 5 with high expectations. However, the film has received a mixed response from both critics and fans, with reactions ranging from applause to dismay.

The Tamil Nadu government allowed special early screenings at 9 am, and despite the nationwide launch, the film’s advance bookings underwhelmed. According to Sacnilk, the movie collected ₹4.93 crore in advance ticket sales across India—a modest figure compared to Haasan’s recent releases like Vikram (₹15.30 crore) and Indian 2 (₹10.98 crore). The film’s ban in Karnataka, reportedly triggered by Kamal Haasan’s political remarks, also dented its revenue potential.

Backed by Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies, Thug Life boasts a powerful lineup: Trisha Krishnan, Silambarasan TR (STR), Abhirami, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Nassar, and Ali Fazal. With music by AR Rahman, cinematography by Ravi K Chandran, and editing by A Sreekar Prasad, the film was pitched as a blend of mass and class.

🌐 Public Reactions on X (formerly Twitter):

@sureshbtweets: “#ThugLife is a torture … neither Shakespearean nor Korean. Mani Ratnam should retire before he becomes the next Ram Gopal Varma. Kamal Hassan has now tanked both Shankar and Mani Ratnam in six months.“
@Injoker_3993: “Started off with an interesting first 30 minutes but faltered spectacularly. A predictable betrayal and revenge drama. Only Ravi K Chandran’s work stood out.“
@parthispeaks: “Kamal shines at times, STR was not used to his potential. Easily one of the worst films of the year. Highly disappointed.“
@sidhuwrites: “Interval: Pretty good gangster drama in Mani Ratnam’s classic style. Strong Kamal-STR scenes. Loving the dialogues more than action so far.“
@MoviesAbout12: “Terrible film. Worse than #Indian2. Kamal Haasan gives a weak performance, STR wasted, Trisha has nothing to do. 1.25/5.“
@Georgej39718648: “Overall classic entertainer. Modern film with vintage aesthetics. Kamal’s screen presence is fiery, STR adds swag, and Mani Ratnam delivers in parts.“
@Dhananjayang (Producer): “A mass & class entertainer. Kamal delivers a classic performance, and STR is in top form. Cinematography, music, and production values are top-notch.“
@MoviesAbout12 (again): “Shock of the year. Indian 2 is better than Thug Life. Worst scam of the year.“
@TrishaFanBoi: “Trisha’s role is a complete waste. Why even cast her if she’s going to be sidelined like that?“

🔥 Other Key Talking Points:

Controversial Ban in Karnataka: Despite the film being barred from release in Karnataka, fans from Bengaluru travelled to nearby Hosur to catch the early morning shows, bursting firecrackers and celebrating Kamal Haasan.
Age-Gap Debate: Kamal’s romantic track with Trisha and Abhirami (both 42) sparked criticism for continuing the “midlife male fantasy” trope in Indian cinema. Mani Ratnam defended the depiction, stating that cinema reflects society.
OTT Release: Thug Life is expected to stream on Netflix in early August, potentially reaching a wider and global audience beyond initial theatrical backlash.

🎥 Final Takeaway:
While Thug Life impresses with its technical brilliance, cast performances, and cinematic ambition, it struggles to meet the sky-high expectations. Mani Ratnam’s signature storytelling feels dated to some and gripping to others—making it a polarizing watch.

Entertainment Desk