After their 1987 film ‘Nayakan,’ director Mani Ratnam and actor Kamal Haasan are collaborating again on a film called ‘Thug Life.’ When asked at a recent event why it took them so long to work together on a project again, Ratnam said he did not work with Kamal in these three decades because he didn’t have a script that suited him.
Mani said, “It’s tough when you have an actor of that capability, someone who has done several things. So unless you have at least something halfway solid to give, you don’t go to him just because you’ve worked together before. Hopefully, we will now be able to bring a unique character on-screen in our next.”
The filmmaker has worked with several stars throughout his career, including the likes of Vikram, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Nagarjuna, Rajinikanth, Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Manisha Koirala, and more. When asked how it feels to handle such big stars, he said, “I don’t think big stars have any egos when they’re working with me. If you’re clear on what you want, they’re more than happy to let you take control. I also don’t work with actors for the sake of it, I do it only if the script demands it.”
Kamal announced ‘Thug Life’ on Mani’s birthday in November 2023. He released a title announcement video which shows a lone figure standing in the middle of a barren, misty land. Covered in a cloak, he faces five men standing at a distance, holding various weapons, ready to charge at him. The camera then reveals Kamal’s face with a dense moustache, beard and long locks.
Other actors starring in this film include Jayam Ravi, Trisha, Dulquer Salmon, Abhirami, and Nasser. AR Rahman will render music.