After a long wait of 36 years, Kamal Haasan and iconic director Mani Ratnam reunite to deliver Thug Life, a film that’s already being called a cult classic by early viewers. The thug life review buzz is intense, with some hailing it as one of the most emotionally charged and stylish films in recent Tamil cinema, while others find it a visual treat that occasionally lacks depth.
A Grand Visual Experience
The movie kicks off with Mani Ratnam’s signature grandeur—lush cinematography, carefully framed shots, and a sense of mood and tone that only a director of his calibre can bring. Audiences are quickly drawn into the world of Rangaraya Sakthivel Nayakkar, played powerfully by Kamal Haasan. The visuals, aided by Ravi K. Chandran’s camera work, lend the movie an immersive, cinematic feel, making it one of the major highlights in the thug life review landscape.
Kamal Haasan Shines as Rangaraya
Haasan’s performance has been described as intense, raw, and masterful. His portrayal of a complex character living on the edge of societal structures is one of the strongest aspects of the film. The character’s philosophical monologues and explosive action moments offer enough for fans who’ve been waiting for Haasan’s grand return to such a layered role.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast
The movie doesn’t rest solely on Haasan’s shoulders. The supporting cast—Silambarasan T.R., Joju George, Trisha, Sanya Malhotra, Nassar, and others—each have their moments to shine. Their characters are etched with Mani Ratnam’s usual attention to detail, though some critics felt that the depth in relationships could’ve been further explored.
Mixed Feelings Over the First Half
While the thug life review is generally positive, some feedback from premieres in the USA points to a slower first half. According to viewers, the initial segments, though visually rich, lacked emotional momentum and had minimal dramatic highs. However, the interval scene has been widely praised and sets the tone for a more gripping second half.
A.R. Rahman’s Music – A Supporting Act
A.R. Rahman’s music blends well with the film’s visuals but hasn't been unanimously praised. Some fans feel the score is more subdued than expected, serving more as a background enhancer than a driving force. However, a few tracks and background themes do elevate key emotional scenes.
Controversy in Karnataka
The movie’s release hit a brief roadblock in Karnataka due to past remarks made by Kamal Haasan on the Kannada language. This led to protests and legal proceedings, but the controversy hasn't dampened the excitement around the film, and audiences elsewhere have embraced it wholeheartedly.
Final Verdict
Overall, Thug Life offers an emotionally rich experience, with Kamal Haasan’s commanding presence, Mani Ratnam’s visual storytelling, and a powerful ensemble cast. Though not without its minor flaws, the film is shaping up to be a memorable addition to Tamil cinema.
