‘Thug Life’ Review: Kamal Haasan Powers a Stylish but Emotionally Inconsistent Action Drama
Universal star Kamal Haasan returns to the big screen with Thug Life, a long-anticipated action drama helmed by acclaimed director Mani Ratnam. With a powerful ensemble cast and high production values, the film arrives with significant expectations. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into the review.
Story Overview
Rangaraya Shakti Raju (Kamal Haasan) is a ruthless gangster who runs a powerful empire in Delhi alongside his brother Manikyam (Nassar). Engaged in a deadly turf war with rival Sadanand (Mahesh Manjrekar), Shakti Raju once uses a child, Amar (played as an adult by Silambarasan “Simbu”), as a human shield to escape a deadly encounter. In a surprising turn of fate, he raises Amar as his own.
Years later, suspicion creeps in, and a betrayal unfolds — Amar discovers that Shakti Raju was responsible for his biological father’s death. In a dramatic confrontation, Amar pushes Shakti Raju into a valley, assuming he has killed him. Taking control of his empire, Amar begins a new reign.
But Shakti Raju survives and returns after two years. What follows is a dramatic face-off: Will he reclaim his kingdom? Will Amar reconcile with his past? And what role does Chandra (Aishwarya Lekshmi), a long-lost childhood connection, play in this emotional reckoning?
Performances
Kamal Haasan effortlessly dominates the screen with a performance full of depth, subtlety, and charisma. His mastery of body language, particularly in action and flashback sequences, is a highlight. His look and intensity become the film’s emotional anchor.
Simbu delivers a strong performance in a pivotal role, capturing the internal conflict and emotional weight his character carries. The dynamic between him and Kamal provides some of the film’s most compelling moments.
Trisha is elegant and poised, holding her own in emotionally charged scenes. Aishwarya Lekshmi leaves a strong impression in the second half with her wild and raw portrayal. Supporting performances from Nassar, Abhirami, and others are effective, though their characters are underwritten.
What Works
Kamal Haasan’s performance is a standout, bringing gravity to every scene.
Emotional intensity between the lead characters is gripping in select portions.
Cinematography is striking, with many scenes beautifully composed.
Production values are top-notch, showcasing Mani Ratnam’s visual storytelling prowess.
What Falls Short
Despite its potential, Thug Life struggles with uneven writing and forced character arcs. Emotional beats often feel contrived rather than organic. Mani Ratnam, while crafting a visually engaging film, doesn’t manage to infuse the narrative with the clarity or coherence expected from a story of this scale.
The first half is brisk and engaging, but the second half drags, lacking momentum and surprise. The climax delivers some impact, but it arrives too late to salvage a story that often feels predictable and bloated.
Technical Aspects
Mani Ratnam’s direction shines visually, but the storytelling falters. The background score elevates key scenes, though the songs lack lasting appeal. Editing could have been tighter — several prolonged sequences dilute the tension. However, the film’s visual style, costumes, and set pieces reflect a high level of craftsmanship.
Verdict
Thug Life offers flashes of brilliance, carried by Kamal Haasan’s magnetic presence and Mani Ratnam’s stylish direction. However, inconsistent pacing, underdeveloped character motivations, and emotional disconnects prevent it from becoming the gripping epic it aspires to be.
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Bottom Line: A visual treat anchored by Kamal Haasan, but let down by a lack of emotional depth and narrative focus.
