Mani Ratnam on Thug Life: “It Started with Kamal Haasan”

Legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam opened up about the origins of his much-anticipated film Thug Life, revealing that the entire project was built around one name — Kamal Haasan. At a recent media interaction, Ratnam recalled how the idea took shape. “First thing that came was Kamal Haasan, and then Thug Life came,” he said. “It started from there.” The statement underscores the deep artistic synergy between the director and the iconic actor, who last collaborated on the cult classic Nayakan in 1987.

 

Ratnam shared that the initial conversations between the two were creatively organic, as they’ve always been. “We talked about various things… trying to see what movie we can make and how well we can make that,” he explained. “At the end of it, Thug Life is what we have come up with.” Their reunion has generated massive excitement, as fans eagerly await what this formidable duo will deliver after more than three decades.

 

When asked about catering to younger audiences, Mani Ratnam playfully dismissed the idea of tailoring the film for Gen Z. “Oh no no no, we didn’t want to cater to Gen Z,” he said with a smile. “We are Gen Z.” The quip reflects the director’s belief that good storytelling transcends demographics and that authenticity in vision naturally resonates across generations.

 

Speaking on the scale of Thug Life, Ratnam emphasized that it was never about spectacle for its own sake. “The scale is decided by the story,” he explained. “Whatever your story demands is what you go towards.” He credited the film’s strong cast and crew for making his job easier. “It’s always a pleasure when you have the correct team. I’ve been lucky to have the best — it’s been fantastic.” With Thug Life set to release worldwide on June 5, 2025, anticipation is soaring for what promises to be a cinematic landmark.

 

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