Kamal Haasan’s much-anticipated gangster drama Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, hit theaters with high expectations but has left audiences divided. Despite a strong opening in Tamil Nadu with over 800 screens and more than 3,000 shows on Day 1, the film’s reception has been mixed, with many feeling it lacked the vitality one would expect from such a powerhouse collaboration
Thug Life Performances and Technical Aspects
Kamal Haasan delivers a solid performance as the fearless gangster Sakthivel, and Silambarasan TR shines as Amaran, the young man caught in the crossfire of gang rivalries. The film’s visuals and stylish action sequences have been widely praised, carrying Mani Ratnam’s signature cinematic flair. The de-aging effects on Kamal Haasan were noted to be neat, and AR Rahman’s soundtrack added emotional depth, though some fans felt the music did not fully match the film’s intensity.
Story and Screenplay: A Missed Opportunity
The plot revolves around typical gangster movie clichés—betrayal, vengeance, and power struggles—but the screenplay and character development fall short of expectations. The first half holds some promise with a leisurely pace, but the narrative soon drags, especially in the second half, which many viewers found sluggish and uninspired. Kamal Haasan’s lengthy monologues, instead of adding depth, tend to wear down the audience, and the trademark Mani Ratnam spark seems absent.
Controversy and Box Office Impact
The film faced a release ban in Karnataka due to Kamal Haasan’s controversial remarks about the Kannada language, which affected its box office potential in that region. Nevertheless, trade experts predict a decent opening day collection of around Rs 18-25 crore, primarily driven by the Tamil Nadu market.
Final Verdict
Thug Life had the ingredients for a gripping gangster saga but ultimately needed more life—more engaging writing, tighter pacing, and stronger character arcs. Fans of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam will appreciate the performances and technical brilliance, but the film struggles to leave a lasting impact beyond its visuals and star power.
This review balances praise for performances and technical elements with criticism of the screenplay and pacing, reflecting the mixed reception Thug Life has received