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India Today
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
What went wrong with Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam's Thug Life?
'Thug Life' marked the legendary and most ambitious collaboration in Indian cinema by bringing Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after almost four decades. Their gangster saga promised an epic exploration of gangsters, violence and betrayal in the trailer sparked curiosity, evoking memories of Mani Ratnam's classic gangster films like 'Nayakan' and 'Chekka Chivantha Vaanam'. With a strong cast including Silambarasan TR, Trisha, Joju George, and music by AR Rahman, expectations were once the film ended, one question remained: what went wrong with a film that had everything going for it? Spoiler alert...!The story wants to be everything, and ends up being nothing'Thug Life' tells the story of Rangaraya Sakthivel, an ageing gangster seeking revenge on those who betrayed him, including his brother, his own gang members, and Amar (his right hand and adopted son, played by Silambarasan). It is also a tale of mistrust and power struggles, with Sakthivel willing to destroy anyone he suspects of threatening him. The film also explores a morally murky subplot: Sakthivel's extramarital relationship with Indrani (Trisha Krishnan), a social media influencer. He casually calls the act of infidelity his 'disorder'.On paper, 'Thug Life' is rich with ideas: it aims to be a dark, psychological crime drama in the vein of 'Nayakan'. But in execution, it tries to be too many things at once. With multiple subplots competing for attention, characters feel underdeveloped and scenes rushed. While 'Nayakan' also juggled complex narratives, it did so with organic flow and emotional depth, something 'Thug Life' gangster drama feels like the final instalment of a franchise film, packed with too many characters and motives, yet without the benefit of prior films to build toward this so-called final arcs and unclear motivationsPerhaps the most unexpected shortcoming is the lack of clear motivations, surprising from a legend like Mani Ratnam, known for emotionally complex characters. For instance, Sakthivel names Amar as his successor as he goes to prison. Amar conquers and calls himself the next Rangaraya Sakthivel. Also, there's a secret regarding Amar's father's killing that affects his bond with Sakthivel. What makes Amar the potential leader? What does he contribute to the gang? The film offers no satisfying answers. If the gangsters' own activities are unclear, it is unrealistic to expect a well-defined motivation for Indrani is another missed opportunity. After her nuanced role as Kundavai in the 'Ponniyin Selvan' series, here she feels vague and ornamental. Is she a lover, muse, or distraction? The film never gives her enough space or clarity. With better writing, she could have anchored the shifting dynamics between Amar and Sakthivel, much like Nandini's character in 'Ponniyin Selvan'.Silambarasan's Amar lacks a clear personality or emotional grounding. His choices appear impulsive without adding intrigue. If his confusion was deliberate to explore inner conflict, it might have worked, but instead it feels like the film itself is unsure of who he is. Consequently, key moments like Amar's betrayal or Sakthivel's revenge lack the emotional impact they the large cast, only Inspector Jai Royappa (Ashok Selvan) carries emotional weight. His motivations are clearer, and his past is explored enough to make him compelling. But even he cannot hold together a film where most characters feel half-formed and much telling, too little showingMani Ratnam is celebrated for his visual storytelling. Iconic scenes like the sun shot in 'Thalapathi' or Shaila's pregnancy-reveal in 'Bombay' communicate volumes without words. 'Thug Life', however, leans heavily on exposition. Key developments like Amar's rise, Sakthivel's exile transformation, the gang's collapse, and what happened to Jeeva (Sakthivel's wife) are relayed through rushed dialogue and montages. Instead of giving these moments emotional weight, the film tells us what happened without letting us feel example, Amar supposedly restructured the gang's operations in two years, but what exactly did he do? How did the world change during Sakthivel's absence? Why does Amar's rise make sense, or does Sakthivel's influence wane? None of this is shown; characters just talk about it. The story feels disjointed, important moments are described rather than highs and flat revealsThe trailer's standout line, 'Inimel inga naan dan Rangaraya Sakthivel (Here on, I am Rangaraya Sakthivel),' hits hard in promos but barely registers in the film. It is not due to Simbu's performance, which is strong, but because the build-up is missing. Mani Ratnam's best films rely on emotional highs: Remember the mirror scene in 'Nayakan', the train departure in 'Alaipayuthey', or the press conference in 'Guru'? In 'Thug Life', many emotional beats arrive without proper setup or feel hastily key interval reveal, intended as a pivotal twist, falls flat. The issue is not the twist but the missing emotional groundwork. If Amar was told early on that the gang was responsible for his father's death, what motivates his sudden switch at the interval? The manipulation by Manikkam (Nasser) is unclear, and the strength of Amar's bond with Sakthivel is not explored. The scene feels gimmicky and unconvincing. Similarly, confrontations like the beach scene between Sakthivel and Jeeva or Amar's final showdown with Indrani aim for gravity but come off sluggish and under the weight of its own legacyA major factor behind the mixed response to 'Thug Life' is how it was promoted. Marketed as Kamal Haasan's grand return to the gangster genre, with heavy callbacks to 'Nayakan', from the character's name to interviews where both Kamal and Mani Ratnam evoked their earlier works' emotional and cinematic weight, expectations soared. The stage was set for a profound character drama rich with tragedy and 'Thug Life' leans heavily on the aesthetics of those classics without capturing their emotional soul. The title, tone, and visuals suggest depth, but the world it builds lacks real stakes. The final product: a gangster saga with no real danger, a father-son conflict without emotional rupture, and a betrayal that feels the film excels. But this beauty often feels disconnected from the storytelling. At times, the music, composed by AR Rahman, overwhelms rather than supports key emotional scenes. The expectations set by its legacy and marketing created a bar so high that the film struggled to reach. 'Thug Life' is not without merit. There are moments where the film shines, especially in the performances of Sakthivel and Amar, and the early scenes between them that carry Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan's signature craft. But instead of building on these strengths, the film often chooses style over substance. It is not a bad film, but one that feels stuck, caught somewhere between honouring the past and finding a new voice. This unresolved tension leaves the film feeling distant when it should have been deeply engaging.
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Star power or script power? The highs and lows of Tamil multi-starrers
Multi-starrer films have always created massive buzz in Tamil cinema, drawing in audiences with the sheer thrill of watching their favorite actors share the screen. When executed well, they deliver cinematic gold, take 'Chekka Chivantha Vaanam' for instance. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Directed by , this action-packed drama brought together a stellar cast including , , Arun Vijay, Simbu, and Jyotika. Its success proved that a well-balanced script can harness multiple star energies without one overshadowing the other, making it a standout example of a multi-starrer done right. The film's taut screenplay and distinct character arcs offered a textbook case on how to effectively manage ensemble casts in mainstream cinema. The danger of star-centric films without substance On the other end of the spectrum lies the issue of unbalanced screen time and underwhelming writing. 'Jailer,' despite Rajinikanth's commanding presence, left some audiences divided due to the extended cameos by Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar, which felt more like crowd-pleasers than story drivers. Similarly, 'GOAT,' Thalapathy Vijay's ambitious time-travel drama directed by Venkat Prabhu, attempts to capitalize on a multi-layered cast including Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, and Meenakshi Chaudhary. However, the film faced criticism for failing to give its ensemble meaningful arcs, leading to a disconnect between hype and substance. When characters exist only to serve fan service, the storytelling inevitably suffers. Big promises ahead Ajith's 'Vidaamuyarchi,' which carried the promise of a unique storyline and an emotionally engaging journey, couldn't quite strike the right balance between character depth and mass moments. Meanwhile, 'Thug Life,' reuniting with Mani Ratnam after decades, boasts a dynamic lineup including Silambarasan, Trisha, , and Gautham Karthik. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now With expectations skyrocketing, fans hope the screenplay justifies each star's presence, avoiding the common pitfalls of fragmented storytelling. Adding to the excitement is 'Coolie,' directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starring Rajinikanth, which promises to blend star power with a gripping narrative, raising the bar for upcoming multi-starrers. The audience today is far more discerning, expecting not just presence, but purpose. Not every multi-starrer gets it right The real challenge in Tamil multi-starrers lies in coherence. Star value might sell the first weekend, but only gripping content sustains a film. Overstuffed casts often lead to shallow characterizations—as seen in 'Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan,' where Simbu's multiple avatars couldn't salvage the muddled plot. Successful multi-starrers like 'Vikram,' though from the pan-Indian arena, set a benchmark for how Tamil actors like Kamal Haasan, Vijay Sethupathi, and Fahadh Faasil can thrive when backed by a strong narrative. 'No one can steal your talent. Multi-starrers are an opportunity to learn from other actors,' said Vijay Sethupathi during the promotions of Vikram. 'Without a strong supporting cast, no hero's film truly works. Multi-starrers are about adding value to the story,' shared while speaking about ensemble films at a movie event. 'Star clashes are purely business. What truly matters is whether each role fits the story—like it did in Vikram,' said Kamal Haasan, explaining the business strategy behind multi-starrers during 'Vikram' promotions. Nikilesh Surya (theatre manager & trade observer) on Vikram said in an interaction with The News Minute: 'Vikram is a testament to the box office potential of a good film with a great cast that people are eager to see. Hopefully, stars will let creators do their part like in Vikram and they can see the results follow.' "A strong cast does generate opening weekend hype but success must come from substance", posted trade analyst Ramesh Bala on social media about 'Thug Life.' Story over stardom: The real key to longevity In essence, multi-starrer Tamil films are a double-edged sword. While the excitement around them is undeniable, their lasting impact depends on the script's ability to justify each character's presence. Star power might open doors, but it's the story that ensures they remain open.
Scroll.in
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scroll.in
‘Thug Life' review: Cinematic panache to the rescue in the Battle of Man Buns
Mani Ratnam's Thug Life has an array of ruffians. The Tamil movie's biggest thug is arguably its director, who muscles his way through a slight storyline with trademark brio. In the gripping opening sequence, Amar loses his father and sister in quick succession during a gunfight. The orphaned Amar (Silambarasan TR) is raised by the gangster Sakthivel (Kamal Haasan). Sakthivel's operation includes his brother Manickam (Nassar) and the henchmen Pathros (Joju George) and Anburaj (Bagavathi Perumal). The green-eyed monster rears its head when Sakthivel anoints Amar as his heir, and runs hither and tither when Amar decides to bite the hand that has fed him. The older man's rival Sadanand (Mahesh Manjrekar) and police officer Jaikumar (Ashok Selvan) are among those trying to take advantage of what turns out to be the Battle of the Man Buns, magnificent specimens of which are sported by Aman and Sakthivel. Thug Life continues Ratnam's career-long preoccupation with the lingering effects of the early loss of innocence. The ghost of Nayakan (1987), in Ratnam directed Kamal Haasan, flits through Thug Life, daring the new film to match its poignancy. Thug Life, written by Ratnam and Haasan, also contains a smattering of Ratnam's Chekka Chivantha Vaanam (2018), about the gradual implosion of a family of criminals. There is a timeless, fable-like quality to Thug Life 's treatment of filial ties and Sakhtivel's back-from-the-brink hero. The movie's largely Delhi setting duly yields a line about the city's history of betrayal and fratricide. Sequences set in the snow are a pointer to the icicles that have formed in the hearts of characters, waiting to be wielded like knives. While the new film's plot is as old as the hills, the staging and treatment of character arcs have the ability to surprise, mesmerise even. Thug Life looks fresh, exciting and seductive – the classic Mani Ratnam trick to make even the routine appear like something you have never seen before. Rather than the addictive Jinguchaa, it's AR Rahman's Vinveli Nayaga that resonates. The track is used mostly in fragments and in its instrumental version throughout Thug Life, linking together an act of violence done to a boy with the backstabbing that becomes a part of his adulthood. Ravi K Chandran's cinematography is kinetic when required and lyrical when showcasing the numerous characters who populate the film's universe. The cast is littered with heavy-hitters and lightweights, some of whom are striking despite being on the screen for only a few minutes. Abhirami, Trisha, Joju George, Aishwarya Lekshmi and Vadivukkarasi make the most of their limited screen time. Others mark attendance simply because there is too much ground to be covered and not enough road for them. Why is Ali Fazal, or Rajshri Deshpande, in the film? Why does Mahesh Manjrekar's Sadanand drop out of view? Whatever is the deal about Sakhtivel and Manickam, brothers in life and crime? There's a smaller, sweeter story nestled within a protracted 165-minute run-time that is dominated by Anbariv's action set pieces after the interval. Sakhtivel's love for his wife Jeeva (Abhirami), which doesn't come in the way of his lust for his young mistress Indrani (Trisha); Amar's ambivalent feelings towards a paternalistic figure associated with his own father's loss; Amar's missing sister Chandra – this is Thug Life 's emotional core, which has to fight through layers of padding. Thug Life muddles the good-bad binary usually found in Ratnam's films, but ever so slightly. The movie sometimes has a Rajinikanth problem. Having cast a screen icon in the lead role, and despite controlling his tendency towards grandstanding, Thug Life is loath to acknowledging, or accepting, that Sakthivel can be a monster too. Kamal Haasan is a memorable lion in winter, dominating his scenes without overwhelming his co-actors. Silambarasan TR is sharp too, standing up to the veteran Haasan despite being shoved to the margins at times. Play
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Silambarasan to team up with Mani Ratnam once again after 'Thug Life'
Silambarasan is all set to play the lead in ace filmmaker Mani Ratnam 's next directorial venture. Fresh off the massive buzz around 'Thug Life,' starring Kamal Haasan , Simbu, Trisha, and others, Mani Ratnam is already lining up his next move. And this time, he's switching gears from high-octane action to heart-melting romance. According to The Hindu, the upcoming film is expected to be a soulful love story, and Silambarasan will be stepping into a full-fledged romantic hero role. After 'Thug Life', Mani Ratnam returns to a soulful romantic genre Rumors had earlier suggested that Mani Ratnam would be casting newcomers for this love story, but the director recently dismissed those claims in an interview. Now, all eyes are on the fresh pairing of Simbu and rising star Rukmini Vasanth , who is said to play the female lead. Their on-screen chemistry is already a topic of curiosity, as fans anticipate Mani Ratnam's signature blend of aesthetics and emotion. Silambarasan's first as a solo lead in a Mani Ratnam directorial While Silambarasan previously collaborated with Mani Ratnam in the critically acclaimed 'Chekka Chivantha Vaanam,' this upcoming project marks the first time he will headline a solo lead role in a Mani Ratnam film. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Click Here - This Might Save You From Losing Money Expertinspector Click Here Undo That milestone alone has heightened expectations. For Silambarasan, who has been choosing his scripts more carefully in recent years, this project is being seen as another big leap in his evolving career. Production to begin soon The film's pre-production is in full swing, with the team planning to kick off the shoot soon. Further details about the supporting cast, crew, and production house are expected shortly. With Mani Ratnam's poetic storytelling and Silambarasan's magnetic screen presence, this romantic drama could well be one of the most awaited films in Tamil cinema's upcoming slate. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
New Indian Express
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Silambarasan opens up at Thug Life audio launch: 'Mani Ratnam gave me a second chance'
Simbu revealed that it was during this low point that Mani Ratnam reached out. 'I couldn't believe it when I got a call from Madras Talkies. I had to check twice if it was real. But it was Mani sir who believed in me and gave me Chekka Chivantha Vaanam,' he said, visibly moved. He also mentioned that Mani Ratnam had earlier approached him for Ponniyin Selvan, and once again offered him a role in Thug Life. 'Getting this chance again, especially alongside Kamal Haasan sir, is very special to me,' he added. Thug Life marks the reunion of Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan after nearly four decades, following their iconic 1987 film Nayakan. This gangster action drama also stars Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Nasser, Abhirami, and more. The film is set to release in cinemas on 5 June 2025, and will begin streaming on Netflix eight weeks after its theatrical run.
