Veteran actor Kamal Haasan has found himself at the center of an online controversy following the release of the much-anticipated trailer for ‘Thug Life’, his upcoming gangster drama directed by Mani Ratnam. While the film promises high-octane action and powerful storytelling, a particular moment in the trailer has stirred a spirited debate on social media.
The trailer features a scene where the 70-year-old superstar shares an on-screen kiss with 41-year-old actress Abhirami, which has drawn mixed reactions from fans. Critics on social platforms have questioned the necessity of the intimate moment, suggesting that it was added for promotional buzz rather than narrative relevance.
Some viewers expressed discomfort over the apparent age disparity between the lead pair, labeling it as unrealistic and unnecessary. The debate echoes previous criticisms aimed at older male actors in South Indian cinema being cast opposite significantly younger female co-stars — a trend that has frequently sparked conversations about ageism and casting dynamics in the film industry.
Adding to the conversation, another scene from the trailer shows Kamal’s character engaging in flirtatious banter with actress Trisha, further fueling online reactions.
Despite the controversy, ‘Thug Life’ remains one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam, the movie marks a high-profile collaboration and features a star-studded cast including Silambarasan, Trisha, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, and Nasser. The film’s soundtrack is being composed by Oscar-winning music director A.R. Rahman, with production helmed by Raaj Kamal Films International and Madras Talkies.
While fans are divided over the trailer’s creative choices, the film’s release is still expected to generate significant attention owing to its powerful team and genre appeal. Whether the backlash affects the film’s reception or adds to its curiosity factor remains to be seen.
