Thug Life Review

Thug Life Review: A Stylish Reunion That Struggles to Ignite

The much-anticipated collaboration between cinematic legends Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam, Thug Life, has finally graced the silver screen. This gangster drama, marking their reunion after the iconic Nayakan (1987), promised a blend of intense performances and masterful storytelling. However, while the film boasts high production values and commendable performances, it falters in delivering a compelling narrative.

Plot 

Set against the backdrop of the underworld, Thug Life follows Rangaraaya Sakthivel Naicker (Kamal Haasan), a formidable mafia don who rescues and raises a young boy, Amaran (Silambarasan TR), as his own. As power dynamics shift and betrayal looms, the story delves into themes of loyalty, vengeance, and the complexities of familial bonds within a criminal empire.

Performances

Kamal Haasan delivers a nuanced performance, capturing the gravitas and internal conflicts of Sakthivel. Silambarasan TR (STR) shines as Amaran, bringing energy and depth to his role, with many fans praising his screen presence . Trisha Krishnan, portraying Indrani, adds emotional weight, though her character’s development feels limited.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Mani Ratnam’s directorial prowess is evident in the film’s visual storytelling. The cinematography by Ravi K. Chandran offers a rich, atmospheric palette that enhances the narrative’s mood . A.R. Rahman’s musical score complements the film’s tone, though some critics feel it lacks the memorability of his previous collaborations with Ratnam

Reception and Critique

Thug Life has elicited mixed reactions. While some viewers appreciate its stylistic elements and performances, others criticize its predictable plot and pacing issues. The film’s narrative has been described as lacking the freshness and emotional depth characteristic of Ratnam’s earlier works .

Thug Life Review – Controversies and Release Challenges

The film faced hurdles in its release, notably in Karnataka, where it was banned due to controversial statements made by Kamal Haasan. Despite this, fans showcased their support by traveling to neighboring regions to view the film .

Thug Life stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of its lead actor and director. While it offers moments of brilliance in performance and visual storytelling, it ultimately falls short of its lofty expectations. For fans of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam, the film provides a nostalgic experience, but for others, it may lack the compelling narrative drive anticipated from such a collaboration.

As of now, Thug Life (2025), the Tamil-language gangster drama directed by Mani Ratnam and starring Kamal Haasan, is exclusively available in theaters, having premiered on June 5, 2025. The film is not yet available for streaming on any OTT platforms

Netflix has officially acquired the digital streaming rights for Thug Life. The film is expected to be available on Netflix approximately eight weeks after its theatrical release, around early August 2025. It will be accessible in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi.

Please note that the film has not been released in Karnataka due to a controversy surrounding a statement made by Kamal Haasan. Despite this, Thug Life has garnered significant attention and anticipation among audiences.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the streaming release, keep an eye on official announcements from Netflix and the film’s production team.