- Thug Life opens to ₹20 crore on Day 1 despite a ban in Karnataka.
- Audience praise visuals and Kamal-Silambarasan’s dynamic; second half criticized.
- Film expected to incur ₹35–40 crore loss due to regional release issues.
Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, and Trisha Krishnan, had a strong opening with ₹20 crore in day-one collections. However, the film’s box office prospects took a hit with its release being blocked in Karnataka, following a controversy surrounding Haasan’s remarks about the Kannada language.
While the first half of the film has been widely appreciated for its visuals and tight storytelling, the second half reportedly loses momentum, drawing criticism for its pacing and lack of emotional payoff.
Kamal Haasan’s ‘Thug Life’ Splits Opinion: Stunning Start, Shaky Finish
Thug Life’s initial reception suggests strong crowd pull and fandom power, with early morning shows running full in Chennai, Hyderabad, and overseas territories. The Kamal Haasan–Silambarasan combo particularly struck a chord with viewers, praised for their onscreen synergy and Mani Ratnam’s signature stylization in character arcs.
Yet, despite high anticipation, the film didn’t land with everyone. Many viewers took to social media to express dissatisfaction with how the plot unfolded in the latter half. Some even remarked that Kamal’s ambitious vision became indulgent, leading to an underwhelming finish that fell short of expectations.
The controversy around Haasan’s statement about Kannada sparked backlash and led to the film’s ban in Karnataka. While the issue led to a projected ₹40 crore loss, it also ignited a passionate fan response, as seen by crowds traveling across state borders to view the film.
Adding to the mixed response was the underuse of A.R. Rahman’s music. While technically sound, fans felt Rahman’s score didn’t leave the emotional impact expected in a Mani Ratnam film. The exclusion of “Muththa Mazhai,” a key promotional element, especially disappointed fans hoping for a musical high.
Thug Life may not have lived up to all expectations, but it remains a testament to Kamal Haasan’s enduring star power and the passionate fan culture he commands.
“A film may not change the world, but it reveals the world of the filmmaker.” – Werner Herzog
