Thug Life Review: Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam Combo Fails to Impress? | Full OTT & Box Office Report

 

Thug Life Movie Review: Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam's Reunion Falls Short of Expectations

Introduction

The much-anticipated Tamil gangster drama Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam and starring Kamal Haasan, hit theaters on June 5, 2025. This film marks the duo's reunion after the iconic Nayakan (1987), raising high expectations among cinephiles. Despite a star-studded cast and technical prowess, the film has garnered mixed reviews, with critiques focusing on its narrative and emotional depth. 

Plot Overview

Thug Life centers on an aging gangster, played by Kamal Haasan, who finds himself at odds with a protégé he once mentored. The storyline delves into themes of betrayal, power struggles, and the complexities of familial bonds within the criminal underworld. While the premise promises a gripping tale, critics argue that the execution lacks freshness and emotional resonance.  

Performances

Kamal Haasan delivers a performance that showcases his versatility, capturing the nuances of a conflicted character. Silambarasan TR (STR) stands out with his electrifying screen presence, particularly in the film's climax. However, Trisha Krishnan's role has been described as underwhelming, with limited scope for impact.  

Direction and Technical Aspects

Mani Ratnam's direction brings a visually rich experience, with Ravi K. Chandran's cinematography earning praise for its aesthetic appeal. A.R. Rahman's music, while technically sound, has been critiqued for not enhancing the film's emotional layers. The screenplay's disjointed nature and lack of depth in character development have been points of contention among reviewers.  

Audience and Critical Reception

The film has elicited polarized responses. Some viewers appreciate the performances and technical aspects, while others express disappointment over the predictable plot and lack of emotional engagement. Social media platforms reflect this divide, with discussions highlighting both commendations and criticisms.  

Box Office Performance

Despite the mixed reviews, Thug Life opened strong at the box office, with early estimates suggesting earnings of around ₹20 crore on its first day. The film's performance indicates a significant draw, likely fueled by the anticipation surrounding the Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam collaboration.  

Controversy and Release Challenges

The film faced hurdles in Karnataka due to a controversy stemming from Kamal Haasan's remarks about the Kannada language. This led to a ban in the state, affecting the film's release and box office potential in the region.  

OTT Release Information

Thug Life is slated for an OTT release on Netflix in early August 2025, approximately eight weeks after its theatrical debut. Netflix acquired the streaming rights for around ₹150 crore, reflecting the film's anticipated appeal to a broader audience.  

Conclusion

Thug Life Tamil movie review: Kamal Haasan reunites with Mani Ratnam in this gangster drama. Read full OTT release date, box office report, cast, music, and audience response Thug Life brings together two stalwarts of Tamil cinema in a film that, while visually compelling, falls short in narrative innovation and emotional depth. The performances, particularly by Kamal Haasan and STR, are noteworthy, but the film's overall impact is diluted by its predictable storyline and lack of engaging character arcs. As it transitions to OTT platforms, it remains to be seen how the film resonates with a wider audience. 

*Note: This review is based on information available as of June 5, 2025, and reflects a synthesis of critical and audience responses.*

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