Thug Life Review: A Visually Grand But Emotionally Hollow Gangster Drama
Sarkar Rating:2/5 Release Date : June 05, 2025
Cast
Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, Trisha, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, Abhirami, Joju George,Nassar.
Crew
Director of Photography: Ravi K. Chandran
Editor: Sreekar Prasad
Action: Anbariv
Production Designer: Sharmishta Roy
Choreography: Kruti Mahesh
Written by: Mani Ratnam & Kamal Haasan
Produced by: Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, R. Mahendran & Siva Ananth
Directed by: Mani Ratnam
Story
Thug Life follows Rangaraya Shaktiraju (Kamal Haasan), a once-powerful gangster whose life unravels due to misunderstandings with those closest to him, especially Amar (Simbu), whom he raises like a son. The film explores the collapse of their bond, Shakti’s downfall, and his eventual return — but not with the impact you’d expect.
Performances
Kamal Haasan brings his trademark gravitas to Shakti’s role, and his screen presence shines in the early portions. But as the story progresses, the character is stripped of power both literally and emotionally which undercuts even Kamal’s seasoned performance.
Simbu as Amar is underwhelming. Despite playing a key role, he fails to leave a lasting impression due to weak writing and lack of defining moments. Trisha gets a brief role, and even her “Sugar Baby” song feels like a missed opportunity, adding no real value.
Direction & Storytelling
Mani Ratnam sets Thug Life against a familiar gangster backdrop, but the emotional core strained relationships and betrayal never digs deep enough to be compelling. The first half, filled with backstory and character introductions, feels long and flat, with very few emotional or action-driven highs.
The second half promises a stronger comeback, with Shakti’s transformation and vengeance. However, his return lacks punch, and the revenge arc unfolds in a surprisingly dull and disjointed manner. Even climactic confrontations with Amar, Nassar, and Trisha lack emotional weight or dramatic payoff. The final act fizzles out, leaving the audience disengaged.
Technical Aspects
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Music: A.R. Rahman’s score is surprisingly underwhelming. Except for “Achcha Vanne Poovvaa,” the soundtrack and background score feel too minimalistic, depriving key scenes of intensity.
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Cinematography: Ravi K. Chandran’s visuals are consistently stunning, elevating the film with rich, cinematic frames.
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Editing: Sreekar Prasad’s editing falters, with a dragging first half and a sluggish second, making the film feel much longer than it is.
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Production Values: Top-notch. The film looks grand and polished, thanks to Raaj Kamal Films International and Madras Talkies.
Verdict
Thug Life boasts a stellar cast, legendary director, and high production values. But all of that is let down by a flat screenplay, weak character arcs, and an emotionally disengaging narrative. Apart from Kamal Haasan’s early scenes and the impressive visuals, the film offers little to remember.
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