Thug Life (2025) Review: Mani Ratnam’s Visual Spectacle Stumbles with a Predictable Plot

The internet is buzzing with reactions to Thug Life, the Tamil action-packed gangster drama that dropped in theaters today, June 5, 2025. Directed by the legendary Mani Ratnam and starring Kamal Haasan, this film marks a much-hyped reunion since their 1987 classic Nayakan. With a killer cast, A.R. Rahman’s electric score, and jaw-dropping visuals, Thug Life had fans hyped for a modern masterpiece. But does it deliver? Here’s our fresh-off-the-screen take, diving into the plot, performances, and what fans on X are saying about this high-stakes crime epic.

What’s the Story?

Thug Life throws you into the gritty world of Rangaraaya Sakthivel Naicker (Kamal Haasan), a ruthless gang leader who saves a young boy, Amaran (Silambarasan T.R., aka STR), during a bloody turf war. Fast-forward years later, Sakthivel survives an assassination attempt and starts suspecting Amaran’s loyalty, kicking off a rollercoaster of betrayal, revenge, and mafia mayhem. Shot in epic locations like Chennai, New Delhi, and the Red Fort, the film blends raw action with Ratnam’s signature cinematic flair. But some fans are calling the plot a “recycled” mix of The Godfather vibes and Ratnam’s own Chekka Chivantha Vaanam.

Why It Matters: Fans expected a fresh gangster epic, but X posts suggest the story feels “predictable” and “slow” in parts.

Who’s Stealing the Show?

The cast is stacked, and they bring their A-game. Kamal Haasan is magnetic as Sakthivel, delivering a performance that’s equal parts intense and vulnerable, though some X users feel his character “fades” in the second half. Silambarasan T.R. is the real MVP, with fans raving about his “swag” and “career-best” scenes, especially in the explosive climax. Trisha Krishnan breaks out of her usual mold with a bold, refreshing role, while Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Nassar, Ali Fazal, and Sanya Malhotra add solid support. Still, X reviews point out that some characters feel “half-baked” due to a rushed script.

Fan Buzz on X: “STR is in #ThugLife! Steals every scene,” one user posted. Another said, “Kamal is great, but the story doesn’t match his energy.”

Visuals and Music: A Technical Knockout?

Mani Ratnam’s direction, paired with Ravi K. Chandran’s cinematography, makes Thug Life a visual stunner. From gritty street fights to sweeping Delhi shots, the film’s IMAX and EPIQ formats are a treat. Anbariv’s action choreography brings the heat, with fans calling the fight scenes “next-level.” A.R. Rahman’s soundtrack, featuring bangers like “Vellake,” is trending hard on X, but some critics note the background score feels “missing” in emotional moments, leaving scenes flat.

X Reactions: “Cinematography is , but where’s Rahman’s magic in the big scenes?” one user tweeted.

The Good, the Bad, and the Controversy

Thug Life is splitting the internet. Fans are hyping its “blockbuster vibes” and “cult classic” potential, praising STR and the film’s grand scale. But others are disappointed, calling it a “slow burn” with a “clunky” second half. “Mani Ratnam’s visuals are fire, but the story feels dated,” one X post read. The film’s also caught flak for a Karnataka ban after Kamal Haasan’s comments about the Kannada language sparked protests. Haasan clarified his respect for Kannada culture, but the boycott could cost the film ₹7-12 crore, per early estimates. Still, advance bookings are strong, with ₹35-40 crore projected for day one, including ₹20-25 crore from Tamil Nadu.

Hot Take on X: “#ThugLife is a visual banger but a narrative snooze. STR saves it!” another user shared.

Box Office and Streaming Scoop

Despite mixed reviews, Thug Life is off to a roaring start, with fans flocking to theaters for its big-screen spectacle. The Karnataka controversy has only amped up the online chatter, trending with hashtags like #ThugLifeReview and #KamalHaasan. Post-theatrical run, the film will stream on Netflix, so fans can catch it from home soon.