Kamal Haasan portrays Sakthivel with the gravitas you would expect from a veteran actor. However, the character itself doesn’t provide him much space to explore a new emotional range
Thug Life is a 2025 Tamil-language gangster action-drama film directed by Mani Ratnam, who co-wrote the script with Kamal Haasan. It marks a significant cinematic moment as it reunites Haasan and Ratnam nearly four decades after their classic Nayakan (1987). The film is produced by Raaj Kamal Films International and Madras Talkies and features a star-studded ensemble cast including Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan, Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Nassar, Ali Fazal, and Rohit Saraf.
Despite its impressive cast and the reputation of the names behind it, Thug Life is a film that promises a lot but ultimately struggles to deliver a satisfying cinematic experience.
The storyline revolves around Rangaraaya Sakthivel (Kamal Haasan), a feared mafia kingpin in New Delhi. The film explores his journey of redemption and revenge after being betrayed by two people he trusted deeply: his brother Rangaraaya Manickam and Amaran, someone he raised like his own. This personal betrayal forms the emotional backbone of the film.
While the plot offers a foundation for an intense and layered narrative, it unfortunately unfolds in a rather predictable manner. It attempts to blend emotional drama with high-stakes action, a combination that could have created something compelling. However, the execution lacks depth, and the emotional beats feel underdeveloped. While the flashback sequences and action setups show potential, the screenplay doesn’t maintain momentum and emotional investment through the film's second half.
Kamal Haasan portrays Sakthivel with the gravitas you would expect from a veteran actor. However, the character itself doesn’t provide him much space to explore a new emotional range. Much of the heavy lifting is done by Silambarasan (Simbu), who delivers a striking performance as Amaran. His intense screen presence adds urgency and power to several crucial scenes.
Trisha Krishnan as Indrani, Aishwarya Lekshmi as Dr. Anna, and Abhirami contribute effectively, though their roles are limited and not as fleshed out as one would hope. Joju George and Nassar offer solid performances in their respective supporting roles. The ensemble is strong, but many of the characters feel one-dimensional, more like pieces placed to serve specific plot points than fully realized individuals.
There are certainly things to appreciate in Thug Life. Silambarasan stands out with a powerful, emotionally charged performance that dominates many scenes. His portrayal of a conflicted and fierce character is one of the film's most engaging aspects.
Visually, the film is stunning. The cinematography by Ravi K. Chandran is a highlight. Having worked with Mani Ratnam previously in Kannathil Muthamittal, Chandran once again showcases his brilliance. From grand landscapes to close-up emotional moments, his visual storytelling brings life to even the quieter sequences. Certain scenes—especially those filmed in monochrome flashbacks or action sequences near historical landmarks—are beautifully crafted.
The action choreography by Anbariv is sharp and impactful. The fight sequences, including a well-executed train station confrontation and a car chase ending at the Red Fort, are among the more thrilling moments.
The music by A.R. Rahman adds significant value to the film. His background score enhances the emotional intensity in several scenes. While not all the songs are used to their full potential in the film, some standout tracks include:
- Anju Vanna Poove, sung by Charulatha Mani with lyrics by Karthik Netha, is poetic and emotionally resonant.
- Mutha Mazhai, though not included in the film itself, became a favorite during its release, beautifully performed by Dhee and in another version by Chinmayi.
- Vinveli Nayaga, sung by Shruti Haasan, plays during the end credits and leaves a lasting impression.
These songs reflect lyrical richness and celebrate the beauty of the Tamil language.
Where Thug Life stumbles most is in its storytelling. The script, co-written by Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan, lacks the emotional strength and narrative clarity expected from such seasoned artists. The first half sets up an engaging premise, but the second half feels repetitive and shallow. Emotional conflicts are touched upon but not explored with the depth they deserve.
The film often shifts from one scene to the next without proper buildup or connection, which affects its overall flow. Editor Sreekar Prasad, a National Award winner known for his skill, appears to have struggled here, as the transitions between major scenes are abrupt and disjointed.
The female characters, though portrayed by talented actresses, are underwritten. They serve more as functional plot devices rather than individuals with meaningful arcs. Even Trisha Krishnan, in a role that could have been powerful, ends up with little screen time or development. Another issue is with character consistency. Kamal Haasan’s Sakthivel is introduced as a complex figure but is later reduced to a simplistic archetype of a fallen don. Similarly, characters like Dr. Anna and Indrani are introduced with intrigue but never fully evolve. The climax also feels rushed and underwhelming, leaving many questions unanswered and emotional threads hanging.
The dialogues, too, lack the impact one expects in a film with such a grand setup. There are moments of brilliance but also scenes that feel forced or melodramatic.
Thug Life is a film that carries enormous expectations due to its cast, director, and production scale. Unfortunately, it doesn’t quite live up to its potential. It has moments of brilliance, thanks to performances by Silambarasan, the visual storytelling of Ravi K. Chandran, and a few well-composed musical pieces by A.R. Rahman. But these strengths aren’t enough to overcome the film’s fragmented storytelling, underdeveloped characters, and emotionally distant screenplay.
It is a film made with ambition, but the result feels uneven and lacking in soul. While it may still appeal to fans of the lead actors or those interested in stylish action sequences, general audiences may find it difficult to connect with the narrative. For a project that promised to be a landmark reunion between legends, Thug Life unfortunately turns out to be a missed opportunity. If you're curious, it might be best to wait for it to arrive on streaming platforms rather than catching it in theatres.
