Showing posts with label Thug Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thug Life. Show all posts
Pass box office test or take a pay cut: Streamers get tough on flops
10:43 PM
Platforms start dropping floor prices and cutting base rates for films underperforming in theatres
Rajesh N Naidu (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; January 2, 2026)
Streaming platforms have begun to do away with a fixed base or floor price (a minimum guaranteed payment) for films underperforming in theatres and have reduced base prices by 25–50%, in a move that could bring greater transparency and create a level playing field in the sharing of risks associated with box office outcomes, veteran distributors, independent streaming consultants and producers told ET.
According to distributors and trade analysts, after Sikandar (Hindi) and Thug Life (Tamil), the latest film to see a reduction in its base price is Akhanda 2: Thaandavam (Telugu).
They said that Netflix revised the film’s base price downward by 25% to Rs 67.5 crore from Rs 90 crore after its underperformance in theatres.
“Today, streamers immediately revise a film’s base price if it underperforms in theatres,” explained Suniel Wadhwa, co-founder & director, Karmic Films. “Platforms now read theatrical performance as a sign of audience rejection or acceptance. Box office success is not a validation today but rather a risk filter,” added Wadhwa.
This move by streamers reflects their sharp focus on profitability after having paid irrational prices for films to expand their libraries, materially impacting their profitability.
Today, digital rights are the fundamental trigger for producers to start a film, as these rights provide 40–80% of total film income. Given this noteworthy contribution, streamers came up with slab-wise revenue payments, which meant that beyond a fixed base price (arrived at after considering the average performance of past films of actors and producers), a film gets an additional upside (bonus) of 10–15% for every box office collection milestone set by the platform and the producer.
“It is a fair deal. If makers get an upside, then they must be prepared for a downward revision of the base price if a film flops in theatres,” said veteran filmmaker Vipul Amritlal Shah.
Distributors said that this move by streamers has emerged from poor responses to underperforming films on their platforms.
“In a way, the downward revision of the base price from a fixed base price will keep in check tactics such as block booking of tickets or releasing films on streamers before the eight-week window to recover cash, as practiced by producers,” said film distributor and trade analyst Shaaminder Malik. “Also, flop films do not provide incremental subscribers to streamers,” added Malik.
Another reason for the downward revision in a film’s base price is the fall in streamers’ appetite for content after recent consolidation. Consequently, power has shifted from producers to streamers.
“After the recent consolidation, the appetite for content among streamers is not as high as it was three years ago. Today, they have more realistic criteria for buying films,” said Shrirang Nargund, an independent streaming consultant.
There is a section of producers that believes that if a streamer revises a film’s base price downward, it should not release the film on its platform before the eight-week window.
“If a streamer reduces a film’s base price, then it must not insist on releasing it on its platform before the eight-week window. They must allow a film to stay in theatres. It may contain losses. The idea is to buy the right film at the right price,” said producer Rajesh R. Nair.
Releasing the film now makes no sense, says Thug Life Karnataka distributor
9:08 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 20, 2025)
Despite getting a go-ahead from the Supreme Court, the distributor of actor Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life in Karnataka believes there is no point to a belated release.
The film premiered across India two weeks ago, but controversy around the actor’s remarks on Kannada resulted in a stay on its release in the state.
A day after the apex court’s decision, distributor Venkatesh Kamalakar noted, “It is not a good business decision to release the film now. [Kamal’s] previous films Indian 2 (2024) and Vikram (2022) also did not do well here.”
Venkatesh, who primarily distributes big-budget Tamil films in Karnataka, added, “When it comes to his films, the success depends on how good it is. Thug Life has generally not been considered a good film, so it’s too risky.”
According to industry sources, the distributor had already paid the production house Rs. 9 crore as an advance for distribution rights. Venkatesh said the banner had promised to return the money. However, he said he isn’t anticipating any difficulty in getting the refund.
He asked, “It is not like it is our fault. Things turned out the way they did, and when there is no profit, which theatre owner will agree to showcase the film?”
Thug Life to release in Karnataka; Supreme Court says can’t allow mobs to take over streets
4:28 PM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 18, 2025)
The Supreme Court on June 17 upheld the rights of filmmakers and theatre owners to release movies without threats of arson and violence while making it clear that the Karnataka government must protect actor-producer Kamal Haasan’s right to screen Thug Life in the state.
Expressing concerns over the “extra-judicial ban” on the screening of the Mani Ratnam directorial, a bench comprising Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice Manmohan said the rule of law demands that any film that has a Central Board of Film Certification certificate must be released and the state has to ensure its screening.
The bench was hearing a PIL filed by Bengaluru resident M Mahesh Reddy, seeking directions to allow the screening of Thug Life, which was not released in Karnataka after certain groups issued threats against its exhibition following Haasan’s “Kannada was born out of Tamil” remarks. The Supreme Court gave a one-day time to the Karnataka government to apprise it about the release of the movie in the state.
I have an issue with it being called Bollywood all the time-Mani Ratnam
9:39 AM
Filmmaker Mani Ratnam on directing a Hindi film in the future and shooting a Tamil film in Delhi
Yashika Mathur (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 9, 2025)
Filmmaker Mani Ratnam, known for delivering cinematic gems across Indian languages, last directed a Hindi film in 2010 — Raavan, starring Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. When asked about his return to Bollywood, Mani doesn’t dismiss the idea but shares how he has reservations about the industry moniker.
“It could happen any time, but I just have (an) issue with it being called Bollywood all the time. It’s really sad. The way I would like, is to do a ‘Hindi film’,” he tells us.
Reflecting on the concept of pan India cinema, Mani, whose directorial Thug Life recently hit the screens across India, says, “I think we’ve coined this term. The fact is that today it is much easier for something very rooted to reach across more spaces. I think it’s like European cinema and it is possible to do something in some particular language, keep it real, keep it rooted and still reach across.”
He also notes that the exchange between the Indian industries is a “really healthy” practice: “We’ve had times when Hindi films have had a presence in the South. We’ve all grown up watching them. Now, it’s good to see other (industries) coming together. It’s just integrating the two sections.”
Parts of his latest venture, starring Kamal Haasan were shot in iconic Delhi locations, such as the Lal Quila. A Tamil film being shot in a distinct North Indian location, feels the 69-year-old, keeps him on his toes to get the details right.
“The geography in which you’ve set the story should help connect with the theme of the film. That becomes your starting point. And you are aware that the people from Delhi are going to watch and they’ll know every detail, so it just makes you more careful. You have to get the details correct. So that is what it makes you more careful than complacent,” he ends.
Southern films struggle in Hindi; poor marketing, weak stories to blame
9:34 AM
Dubbed regional films struggle to find success in the Hindi belt over the past six months, despite attempts to broaden their appeal
Rajesh N Naidu (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; June 9, 2025)
An increasing number of southern language films dubbed in Hindi have failed to attract a favourable response in the past six months, thanks to limited or no marketing, lack of stories containing universal values and stylish larger-than-life characters, a small four-week window in theatres, and ineffective branding through the deliberate casting of prominent actors from across India.
The recent washout performance of the Hindi-dubbed version of the Tamil film Thug Life points is the latest example.
According to box office research firm Sacnilk, Thug Life collected 1.2 crore in Hindi over the past three days, while the Tamil version earned 26.08 crore in the same period. Apart from Thug Life, dubbed Hindi films such as Retro, HIT: The Third Case and Kanguva have not worked.
Producers believe that the increasing tendency among southern filmmakers to promote films as pan-India offerings is a key reason for their failure.
"A pan-India film is a myth. Deliberately casting actors from different states does not make a southern film pan-India. The Hindi belt audience just wants a good, entertaining film. A good film dubbed in as many languages as you want will work," said Naveen Chandra, founder and CEO of 91 Film Studios, a studio that produces, finances, and distributes regional films.
He cites 'Pushpa 2' and 'Kalki 2898 AD' as examples of films that found a strong audience in the Hindi belt. "In Pushpa 2 – The Rule, the story has not progressed at all. The cop has not caught the criminal. There is a continuous chase. Yet, the film has worked. This is because almost every scene in the film is entertaining. And the Hindi belt audience has loved it," said Chandra.
Pushpa 2 – The Rule was released in December last year. It collected Rs 812 crore in the dubbed Hindi version alone-much higher than the film's collection in its original Telugu, which was Rs 341.4 crore.
Another reason Hindi-dubbed versions are failing at the box office is their storytelling. "The Hindi belt audience is not interested in stars. They are interested in stories that contain universal values, stylish larger-than-life characters, and a high dose of escapism. Of late, however, southern films have been more realistic, with little escapism. Hence, they are not travelling beyond their home states," said Shaaminder Malik, a film distributor and trade analyst.
According to a report by media and entertainment research firm Ormax Media, in 2024, dubbed Hindi films contributed 31% to the total Hindi box office, highlighting the dominance of southern films. But this contribution is likely to drop in 2025.
Limited marketing and promotion, along with a four-week theatrical window, have also contributed to the failure of Hindi-dubbed films. "Of late, a dubbed Hindi film is either not marketed or not well enough. Audiences in the Hindi belt are not aware of these films. Importantly, most southern films stay in theatres for only four weeks before being released to streamers. So, the potential of these films is not fully exploited by Hindi belt audiences," said Suniel Wadhwa, a veteran film distributor.
(Crisp) Movie Review: THUG LIFE [Hindi] by FENIL SETA
1:37 PM
Thug Life starts on an interesting note. The use of black and white in a crucial scene adds a nice touch. But soon, the film falls due to the script and also execution. The intermission point is arresting but the way the film goes into a completely silly zone after the interval will shock viewers. The film completely loses the plot here and kudos to Mani Ratnam for enhancing interest once again, in the pre-climax and climax. It helps only till an extent, sadly. Kamal Haasan rises above the script and gives a powerful performance. Silambarasan TR too puts his best foot forward. Trisha Krishnan looks stunning and is too good. Abhirami leaves a huge mark. The same goes for Aishwarya Lekshmi. Nassar, Joju George (Pathros), Sanjana Krishnamoorthy (Mangai), Bagavathi Perumal (Anburaj) and others are fine. Ali Fazal, Mahesh Manjrekar and Rohit Saraf are just okay and have very limited screen time. All in all, Thug Life is a disappointing film (P.S.: If you do watch the film, please dont miss the beginning).
My rating - * ½ out of 5!Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 885
8:11 AM
WILL THUG LIFE AND HOUSEFULL 5 SUCCEED AT THE BOX OFFICE?
The IPL season has ended, which means that there will be a flow of big releases. This week, two major films will try their luck at the box office.
Thug Life, the Tamil film, releases today, June 5. It reunites Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after almost 37 years. Besides Kamal, it also stars Silambarasan T R, Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi and Hindi actors like Ali Fazal, Mahesh Manjrekar and Rohit Saraf. The film got noticed by many in the Hindi-speaking markets thanks to the song 'Jinguchaa', which also features Sanya Malhotra.
The film faces some challenges. Firstly, Thug Life doesn’t look like a typical mass entertainer. Hence, the excitement is present but is minimal. This is also reflected in the advance sales. It is expected to have an opening of around Rs. 18-20 crores all-India in all languages. Secondly, the film will not see a release in Karnataka after Kamal Haasan made controversial statements on Kannada language. This would hit the film’s collections by around Rs. 2 crores.
In Hindi, Thug Life is expected to open at around Rs. 1 crore as the buzz is very limited. From tomorrow, it’ll face show reductions due to Housefull 5. As a result, it’ll need a very positive word of mouth to sustain.
Speaking of Housefull 5, it stars Akshay Kumar, Abhishek A Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Fardeen Khan, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Dino Morea, Ranjeet, Soundarya Sharma, Nikitin Dheer and Akashdeep Sabir. This time, the director is Tarun Mansukhani of Dostana fame. Also, this is the first Housefull film that is not just a comedy. It is a ‘killer’ comedy as it involves a murder, that too on a cruise.
The makers began promotions with the song ‘Laal Pari’ and it became an instant chartbuster. The trailer was unveiled 10 days before release and got a decent response. During the trailer launch, the makers revealed that they have shot two versions, both with different endings and killers. Moreover, they have decided to release both the versions, named Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B!
When the trailer was released, the industry expected the film to open at Rs. 30 crore plus. But with the advance booking not being as per expectations, the revised expectation is that Housefull 5 will open at Rs. 20-25 crores. Reports are also coming in from exhibitors that there is confusion over whether audiences should watch Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B. The makers want moviegoers to watch both but that won’t be possible for most people to do as cinema today is an expensive proposition. As a result, many are adopting a wait-and-watch situation. It means that they would want to know from reviews and public response which version packs a better punch and accordingly, they’ll book tickets for that version.
This gives hope that Housefull 5’s collections will rise significantly from Friday night. Saturday, June 7, is a holiday due to Bakri Eid and that would give the film an added push. Sunday will also be huge and if the film can have a weekend of Rs. 90 crores plus, it’ll be praiseworthy.
The IPL season has ended, which means that there will be a flow of big releases. This week, two major films will try their luck at the box office.
Thug Life, the Tamil film, releases today, June 5. It reunites Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after almost 37 years. Besides Kamal, it also stars Silambarasan T R, Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi and Hindi actors like Ali Fazal, Mahesh Manjrekar and Rohit Saraf. The film got noticed by many in the Hindi-speaking markets thanks to the song 'Jinguchaa', which also features Sanya Malhotra.
The film faces some challenges. Firstly, Thug Life doesn’t look like a typical mass entertainer. Hence, the excitement is present but is minimal. This is also reflected in the advance sales. It is expected to have an opening of around Rs. 18-20 crores all-India in all languages. Secondly, the film will not see a release in Karnataka after Kamal Haasan made controversial statements on Kannada language. This would hit the film’s collections by around Rs. 2 crores.
In Hindi, Thug Life is expected to open at around Rs. 1 crore as the buzz is very limited. From tomorrow, it’ll face show reductions due to Housefull 5. As a result, it’ll need a very positive word of mouth to sustain.
Speaking of Housefull 5, it stars Akshay Kumar, Abhishek A Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Fardeen Khan, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Dino Morea, Ranjeet, Soundarya Sharma, Nikitin Dheer and Akashdeep Sabir. This time, the director is Tarun Mansukhani of Dostana fame. Also, this is the first Housefull film that is not just a comedy. It is a ‘killer’ comedy as it involves a murder, that too on a cruise.
The makers began promotions with the song ‘Laal Pari’ and it became an instant chartbuster. The trailer was unveiled 10 days before release and got a decent response. During the trailer launch, the makers revealed that they have shot two versions, both with different endings and killers. Moreover, they have decided to release both the versions, named Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B!
When the trailer was released, the industry expected the film to open at Rs. 30 crore plus. But with the advance booking not being as per expectations, the revised expectation is that Housefull 5 will open at Rs. 20-25 crores. Reports are also coming in from exhibitors that there is confusion over whether audiences should watch Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B. The makers want moviegoers to watch both but that won’t be possible for most people to do as cinema today is an expensive proposition. As a result, many are adopting a wait-and-watch situation. It means that they would want to know from reviews and public response which version packs a better punch and accordingly, they’ll book tickets for that version.
This gives hope that Housefull 5’s collections will rise significantly from Friday night. Saturday, June 7, is a holiday due to Bakri Eid and that would give the film an added push. Sunday will also be huge and if the film can have a weekend of Rs. 90 crores plus, it’ll be praiseworthy.
No ‘apology’ from Kamal Haasan, as Thug Life Karnataka release halted
9:53 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (June 4, 2025)
Actor Kamal Haasan on Tuesday announced that his production house is not looking to release his upcoming film Thug Life in Karnataka for now, pending a dialogue with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC). This submission was recorded by the Karnataka High Court during its hearing on Tuesday, which also indicated that the matter may be adjourned to allow for a potential settlement of the controversy stemming from Kamal’s recent remarks on the origin of the Kannada language.
Earlier, following demands for an apology, Kamal issued a clarification letter to KFCC President Narasimhalu. In the letter, he expressed his “pain” that his remarks were “misunderstood and taken out of context,” asserting his intent was to convey unity, not diminish Kannada. He affirmed, “There is no dispute or debate on the rich legacy of Kannada language.”
He underscored his “genuine” love for Kannada and its people, reiterating his firm stand for “equal dignity of all Indian languages,” and opposing the “dominance of any single language.” However, during its hearing, the High Court also slammed the actor for not explicitly apologizing in this letter. “The letter addressed to the KFCC is in response to the demand for an apology, but the word apology is not found in the communication,” the court observed.
You can’t unscramble the scrambled egg: Karnataka HC
Earlier on Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court had rapped the actor for his controversial remarks, stating, “You may be Kamal Haasan or anybody, you cannot hurt the sentiments of the masses.” The judge stated, “Haasan could have said ‘I have made a statement without looking into the history’... Language is a sentiment attached to particular people. You have said something to undermine that.”
Emphasizing the need for a direct apology, the judge added, “There is a difference between a person who is a victim of circumstances and a person who creates circumstances. Now that Haasan has made the statement, you can’t unscramble the scrambled egg, only thing left is to apologize. (If you won’t apologize) Why do you want film to run in Karnataka?”
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HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 4, 2025)
The Karnataka High Court pulled up actor Kamal Haasan over his recent controversial statement, “Kannada was born out of Tamil”, during a film promotion. The court said that he shouldn’t have “hurt public sentiments” and asked him to “make amends”.
“Discretion is the best part of valour, we will not permit anybody’s sentiments to be taken for a ride. Mistakes happen, you must know what to do when mistakes happen,” the court said. It made the strong verbal observations while hearing a plea filed by Kamal’s production house, seeking the release of the actor’s upcoming film, Thug Life, in Karnataka.
Justice M Nagaprasanna, after watching the video of the event, said, “You may be Kamal Haasan or anybody, you can’t hurt the sentiments of the masses. On what basis have you made the statement? Are you a historian, linguist? The division of this country is on linguistic lines. A public figure can’t make such statements. What has happened because of it is unrest. The people of Karnataka only asked for an apology. Now you come here seeking protection.”
Appearing for Kamal’s production house, advocate Dhyan Chinnappa urged the court to consider “the context in which the statement was made by the actor”. He said: “The statement made cannot be taken outside and say that he is saying something against Kannada language.” Dhyan also submitted Kamal’s written reply following the incident. The court replied: “There is no apology in it... You are not an ordinary man, you are a public figure.”
Till the time of going to press, Kamal, 70, who refused to apologize, decided to not release his film in Karnataka for now. It’s subject to his discussion with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC). Meanwhile, the matter will be heard again on June 10.
To be welcomed by Kamal Haasan with such generosity is beyond anything I could’ve imagined-Ali Fazal
10:28 AM
Ali Fazal, who makes his Tamil debut with Thug Life, on how saying yes to Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan’s action drama was a no-brainer
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 2, 2025)
Exploring South Indian cinema was an idea Ali Fazal often toyed with. But the actor had never imagined making his Tamil debut in a Mani Ratnam film and having Kamal Haasan as a co-star. At a recent promotional event of Thug Life, the superstar welcomed Fazal to south cinema, revealing that he wanted to work with him ever since he saw his work in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Khufiya (2023). When we sit down with Fazal, the first thing we ask him is how it feels to be praised by Haasan.
“Kamal sir is not just a legend, but a force of art and cinema. Getting to share the screen with him feels like a once-in-a-lifetime moment. To be welcomed by him with such generosity is beyond anything I could’ve imagined,” he smiles.
Featuring in the action drama, which also stars Silambarasan T R, Trisha Krishnan, and Abhirami, was among the easiest decisions he has made.
Fazal says, “There are some calls you get that you instantly know are meant to change the course of your journey. This was one of them. When you hear the name Mani Ratnam, you think of legacy, storytelling that’s timeless and deeply rooted in human emotion. I didn’t have to think before saying yes to Thug Life. A Mani Ratnam film isn’t something you get offered every day, and certainly not alongside someone as iconic as Kamal Haasan.”
Thug Life is being mounted as a pan-India action extravaganza. For Fazal, that was another draw. He reasons, “That the project brings together talent from across the Indian film industries makes it more special. Language, geography, or ethnicity should never be a barrier for an actor.”
Kamal Haasan on language row: "What I said was with a lot of love"
9:04 AM
Actor Kamal Haasan has remained defiant amid the language row, asserting that his remarks on Kannada were said out of love
HINDUSTAN TIMES (May 30, 2025)
Amid backlash over his comments that Kannada was born out of Tamil during Thug Life promotions, Kamal Haasan responded on Wednesday, saying he meant no offence. “What I said was with a lot of love,” he said.
According to PTI, he added that historians have shaped his understanding of language, and any in-depth discussions should be left to experts. “This is not an answer [but] an explanation. Love will never apologize,” he concluded, hinting at the criticism from pro-Kannada groups and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
Meanwhile, the Congress and the BJP have jointly condemned his remarks immediately after they came to light on Tuesday. BJP leader R Ashoka called Kamal a “mental patient”, while Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah dismissed the actor’s claims as “misinformed” and added that he is “unaware” of Kannada’s deep-rooted history. htc
WHAT LIT THE FUSE
Controversy erupted when Kamal Haasan, at the audio launch of his upcoming film in Chennai earlier this week, said, “My life and my family are the Tamil language.” Turning to Kannada star Shiva Rajkumar, who was also present, he said, “This is my family in that place. That’s why he (Shiva Rajkumar) has come here. That’s why I began my speech saying life, relationships and Tamil. Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil, so you too are included (part of it).”
Pro-Kannada group Karnataka Rakshana Vedike filed a police complaint on Wednesday, as calls to boycott the film grow. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce had also announced that they would discuss a possible ban.
During Nayakan, Kamal Haasan was a big star, and I was a beginner. But he trusted me fully-Mani Ratnam
4:04 PM
Ready with Thug Life, filmmaker Mani Ratnam on how his experimental instinct and not carrying the baggage of past successes have shaped his rich career
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; May 29, 2025)
Expectedly, Mani Ratnam’s head is always brimming with ideas. And it was, after the release of his last film, Ponniyin Selvan 2 (2023). But the filmmaker points out that his upcoming movie, Thug Life, led by Kamal Haasan, wasn’t one of them.
“This was an idea that Kamal had. We decided to pick this up because something in this idea resonated with me. It had the germ, which I liked,” he smiles.
Thug Life — also starring Silambarasan T R, Trisha Krishnan, and Abhirami — sees Haasan as a gangster, who is forced to turn on his family in the face of betrayal. The June 5 release is pegged as a gangster action drama, but to Ratnam, it is an emotional story that has “a lot of action” in it. Those emotionally charged, interpersonal conflicts are admittedly the “germ” of an idea that struck a chord with him.
“I think action is made for cinema. It has all the elements that highlight the medium fully. I’ve always liked action films, but only when they are an integral part of the film, and not action for action’s sake. This film has action as an integral part of the story. What hooked me were its emotional content, the relationships, and interaction between the characters,” he explains.
Much of the anticipation about Thug Life lies in the fact that it marks the director’s reunion with Haasan 38 years after their maiden collaboration, Nayakan (1987). A lot has naturally changed over the decades.
Has anything remained the same? The trust, Ratnam promptly replies. “When I did Nayakan, Kamal sir had done maybe 100 films. He was a big star, and I, a beginner. But he trusted me fully. He would let us do things exactly the way we wanted. That was encouraging, and it hasn’t changed even today.”
Surely, given Nayakan’s iconic status, the actor-director duo was conscious of the audience’s expectations while making Thug Life. No, says the filmmaker. “You can’t be carrying the baggage all your life. You just try to do the next one. You’re not in competition with your previous work.”
Mani Ratnam agrees that experimenting is risky, especially when the star status of an artiste tempts them to recreate the past glory. But he doesn’t know any way other than experimenting. “It’s a survival instinct, you keep shifting so that you don’t become predictable and repetitive. There is a certain amount of risk [when I do] something new; I don’t know how it is going to be, I have to figure it out. That keeps me excited and fresh.”
This approach has made Ratnam one of the finest Indian directors, with works ranging from a gangster drama in Thalapathi (1991) to a real-life drama in Bombay (1995), from a film about youth politics in Yuva (2004) to a rom-com in O Kadhal Kanmani (2015). Despite the rich four-decade career, the filmmaker confesses to not feeling good enough.
“I am insecure all the time. No artiste would deny that. Insecurity stems from what you think of yourself. I can make a film, and then think I can do better. The standard of cinema around the world is so high. Younger filmmakers are making brilliant movies. So there is always scope for you to push yourself higher, and not settle for where you stand.”
While he keeps mum on what he is planning to do next, we probe about the possibility of him reuniting with his Guru (2007) and Raavan (2010) stars Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan. The rumours of their potential collaboration did the rounds all of last year.
“I am working on ideas, but I don’t really have something concrete to offer the two of them. If I have something which is right for them, I will call and ask them, ‘Can I meet you?’” But are the ideas he is working on exclusively for them? “They are exclusively for me,” he grins.
Another producer could not have taken the pressure of Thug Life-Kamal Haasan
8:22 AM
Reuniting with Mani Ratnam after 38 years for Thug Life, Kamal Haasan on how they don’t care for stardom and would rather use their money to realise their cinematic vision
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; May 24, 2025)
What took you more than 30 years to reunite with Mani Ratnam? - This question has made a frequent appearance since Kamal Haasan kicked off the promotions for his next, Thug Life. When we express our curiosity, the superstar smiles before saying, “I’m almost tempted to request all of you not to ask that question because I can only say sorry, it’s our fault. We should have done it earlier.”
In 1987, the two gave Indian cinema the much-loved Nayakan. Thirty-eight years later, as the actor reunites with one of his favourite filmmakers for the gangster action drama, he reveals that an encore was always on their mind.
“Sometimes, we were thinking too big, and at other times, we would think something small and then [shoot it down] believing that these are the days of big films. Sometimes, I’d come up with an idea, and Mani would already be working on something else, and vice versa. But we were gently, subconsciously, and from a distance, inspiring each other,” grins the actor.
That decades-long inspiration has resulted in Thug Life, which also stars Silambarasan T R, Trisha Krishnan, Abhirami, Ali Fazal, and Sanya Malhotra. How was it working together considering they both have come a long way from Nayakan? Haasan is an even bigger star today, and Ratnam, one of the greatest filmmakers in the country. Did the actor try to impress his director this time?
“I can’t impress the director; the character can. He booked Kamal Haasan not because of the stardom. Left to us, I think we are both overpaid. But then if we let that go, they [the industry] won’t respect us. So, we will take our cut.”
This time around, their collaboration has also taken a different turn. Haasan not only leads the June 5 release, but has also co-written and co-produced it with Ratnam. And he firmly believes that nobody else could’ve done justice to the film as far as production is concerned.
The superstar states, “[We are the kind] who will put our money into the film. Suppose all that we have shot is destroyed, we won’t panic. We will go ahead, put our own money, and do it [again]. Another producer could not have taken the pressure of Thug Life. We made some difficult decisions.”
Production and direction were a natural graduation for the actor. It all stems from his endless love for movies and deep respect for the craft. His passion is evident as he says, “I never walk out of a film because that would [mean] insulting my peers. We’ve made stupid films. When I say that, I don’t include Mani’s films in it. But I have, because I needed finance for my own productions.”
That is a career lesson Haasan learnt from late actor and filmmaker Shashi Kapoor. “He would be singing a song on top of an elephant in Shaan [1980], and the same elephant would be beside him in Junoon [1978]. I had asked him, ‘Can I also [juggle mainstream and parallel cinema]?’ He said, ‘Sure. It’s pragmatism. Don’t mistake it for valour.’ Some of the great Italian directors did commercial films, made money out of them, and [used that] to make films that would live on.”
Wise career lessons, unmatched talent, and a progressive worldview have come together to shape Haasan’s enviable filmography that spans over six decades and different branches of filmmaking. Through his films, he has positioned himself as an artiste who often mirrors society’s fractured reality. In Nayakan, he showed the perils of violence. But today, how does he view Indian storytelling’s penchant for violence and the audience’s love for it? He points to a chapter in history to make his case.
“You know, after the Second World War, America kept making musicals; they didn’t want any violence. Now we’ve had enough peace. Now, the time of violence has begun, and that’s reflecting on screen. Earlier, the angry young man was only angry; now he will become violent if his voice is not heard. At least, a soapbox oratory should be allowed in front of the Red Fort. Listening to [the common man’s] voice is what great leaders have always done. After Partition, look at the kind of films we made — Naya Daur [1957] and Waqt [1965]. Even now, cinema is reflecting society, and [the violent films imply] that society has become violent. If you want proof, watch any television channel.”
I knew Mani Ratnam, Kamal Haasan wouldn’t waste me in the film-Trisha Krishnan
8:47 AM
Convinced that Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan would utilize her talent to the most — Trisha Krishnan on why she came aboard Thug Life
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; May 19, 2025)
When Mani Ratnam offers you a film headlined by Kamal Haasan, you need to know nothing more to come aboard, shares South star Trisha Krishnan, as we sit down in Chennai to chat about the gangster action drama, Thug Life. “This combination was more than enough for me to be part of it,” she adds. It’s not just their genius as artistes but also her faith in the legends to utilise her well — despite a huge ensemble cast — that made her confident about the film.
“Kamal sir and Mani sir are [greats]. I always knew they wouldn’t ever waste [me] in a film, irrespective of the [character I] play in it. Being in the best of hands, [I was sure] Mani sir would fine-tune me into becoming the character. Kamal sir always makes sure that his co-actors have their space in the film. He is one of the most generous co-actors I have worked with,” she smiles.
Ratnam and Haasan have co-written and co-produced the film, which also stars Silambarasan TR and Abhirami. When asked what a set with the filmmaker feels like, Krishnan quips, “A very early morning!” The actor explains that before the film went on floors, the director-actor duo had meticulously planned everything, with tons of rehearsals to ensure that the shoot progressed smoothly.
“There has never been a day we did not finish what was planned. They had done a lot of homework before coming to the set. It was a structured set, despite the chaos.”
With the veterans
Thug Life, set to release next month, marks Trisha Krishnan’s fourth film with Mani Ratnam after Aaytha Ezhuthu (2004), Yuva (2004), and Ponniyin Selvan (2022–23). And It is her third venture with Kamal Haasan after Manmadan Ambu (2010) and Thoongaa Vanam (2015).
All quiet on Bollywood front: Producers postpone launches, delay promotions as border tensions dent confidence
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Rajesh N Naidu (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; May 14, 2025)
Mumbai: The military conflict between India and Pakistan seems to have had an unproportionate impact on the Hindi film industry, with many filmmakers delaying promotional and marketing activities, and postponing, or even shelving, film and trailer launches.
The industry is staring at an estimated or potential loss of Rs, 150-200 crore in the form of cost of capital and deferred revenues due to this, according to producers and trade analysts.
"In these times of geopolitical unrest, cinema pauses not from the lack of creativity but from caution," said Suniel Wadhwa, a veteran film distributor and co-founder and director at Karmic Films.
"There are losses in the form of delayed cash, sunk costs, interest on idle capital, broken contracts, and missed momentum. These will have a ripple impact on producers, promotional and advertising agencies, theatres, financiers, and even streamers," he said.
"I think more than Rs. 700-800-crore worth of Hindi films stand vulnerable at this stage," Wadhwa said.
To be sure, there has already been a sense of uncertainty around theatre attendance in the industry, fuelled by a series of box-office flops and an overall decline in collections in recent months, largely due to shifting audience preferences.
The launch of Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the early hours of May 7, and the subsequent military conflict further dampened the mood among producers of several Hindi films slated for release in May and June.
Makers of Kesari Veer and Housefull 5 stalled promotional activities, while those behind Sitaare Zameen Par and Thug Life postponed the releases of their trailer and audio soundtrack, respectively. Producers of mid-budget film Bhul Chuk Maaf opted to forego theatre release entirely and instead debut the film on a streaming platform.
Some veteran trade analysts attributed a part of such actions to low confidence among producers. "Even though one cannot rule out the impact of Indo-Pak conflict on cinema, one also has to consider that a big reason behind delaying releases is low confidence of producers to release films in theatres due to increasing unpredictability in theatrical performance of films," said Shaaminder Malik, a film distributor and trade analyst.
"Consequently, there are makers of upcoming big-budget films who are planning to release their films directly on streamers after their teasers and trailers received unfavourable response," he added.
Meanwhile, production of the sequel of the film Sanam Teri Kasam, which performed well on its re-release recently, may get delayed because the main actor has declined to work with the main actress because she is from Pakistan.
Some industry insiders believe the impact would be minimal as the border tensions have eased and life has returned to normal in most of the country since India and Pakistan agreed to stop military action on Saturday.
"I think films scheduled to release in May will be impacted. But releases in June will not be impacted that much," producer Rajesh R Nair said. "But I think Hollywood releases in May will be a saving grace as these franchise films have a huge following in India and their makers are not postponing their release."
Aamir Khan delays Sitaare Zameen Par trailer release amid growing India-Pakistan tensions
11:24 AM
In light of India-Pakistan’s ongoing conflict, Aamir Khan pushes Sitaare Zameen Par’s trailer unveiling; Thug Life’s audio launch rescheduled
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; May 10, 2025)
With the tension between India and Pakistan escalating, the Indian film industry is recalibrating its immediate activities. Close on the heels of Bhool Chuk Maaf’s makers announcing skipping its theatrical release, Aamir Khan has pushed the trailer launch of Sitaare Zameen Par. We’ve heard that the actor intended to release the three-minute-plus trailer on May 8, but decided against it.
A source close to the production house reveals, “Considering the developments at the borders and the nationwide alert, Aamir decided to postpone the release of Sitaare Zameen Par’s trailer. His thoughts are with the bravehearts of our Armed Forces. He feels it is important to respond with unity and restraint during this time.”
Also starring Genelia Deshmukh, the dramedy is set for a June 20 release. An adaptation of the Spanish film Campeones (2018), R S Prasanna’s directorial venture revolves around Khan’s arrogant protagonist whose worldview changes when he starts training a group of differently-abled kids in basketball. Another insider shares, “Whoever has seen the trailer has found it heart-warming and funny. The team is confident that whenever it’s released, it will appeal to the audience.”
The sentiment of putting the country first is being felt down South as well. Kamal Haasan decided to postpone Thug Life’s audio launch that was to be held on May 16. He issued a statement that read, “In view of the developments at our nation’s border and the current state of heightened alert, we have decided to reschedule the audio launch of Thug Life. As our soldiers stand firm on the frontlines with unflinching courage in defence of our motherland, I believe it is a time for quiet solidarity, not celebration. A new date will be announced at a later, more appropriate time.”
Comeback of the Khans, War 2, Game Changer and more to look forward in 2025
8:42 AM
After a no-show in 2024, Aamir and Salman Khan will return to the cinemas this year. What else is in store? A woman-led spy thriller, big-ticket south entertainers, and not surprisingly, sequels galore
Mohar Basu, Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; January 1, 2025)
Would it be too simplistic to say that one of the reasons 2024 was a lean year at the box-office was because the Khan troika—Shah Rukh, Aamir and Salman—did not have a single release? Perhaps. But ask any Hindi movie fan, and they’ll tell you that the superstars were sorely missed. Which is why all eyes are on this year, when at least two Khans will be back on the big screen.
Salman hasn’t had a release since Tiger 3 (2023). But a lot happened with the superstar throughout 2024, beginning with a round of firing outside his Bandra house in April to receiving death threats from gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. So, his return to celluloid with Sikandar is eagerly awaited.
What makes it better is that in his maiden collaboration with director A R Murugadoss, he will do what he does best—be a larger-than-life hero and avenge the wrong. Expect high-octane action, drama, a fresh on-screen jodi with Rashmika Mandanna, and a script that requires suspension of disbelief. Oh, and presumably a bumper opening. After all, his fans will go in droves for their Eidi.
While the audience’s Eid is dedicated to Salman, Aamir Khan will be their summer date. It has taken the superstar four years since the underwhelming response to his passion project, Laal Singh Chaddha (2021), to face the camera again. This time, he promises another heartfelt story with Sitaare Zameen Par. The actor-producer considers it a spiritual successor to Taare Zameen Par (2007). An adaptation of the Spanish sports comedy, Campeones (2018), Aamir said the new film was “way ahead” of its predecessor, flipping the narrative as it shows how far people can go despite their challenges.
Directed by R S Prasanna of Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (2017) fame, it also stars Genelia Deshmukh and Darsheel Safary. Will it create the box-office magic that Laal Singh Chaddha couldn’t? Who can tell? But then, as we start 2025, we can hope this is the year the audience loves movies for their narratives, not box-office numbers.
Game Changer
Director S Shankar may have had a misfire last year with Indian 2. But the director, known for his visual spectacles, blends politics and action again in Game Changer. Ram Charan plays an IAS officer determined to battle corruption and promote fair elections in the Telugu action thriller scheduled for a
January 10 release.
Raid 2
With franchise films becoming a ticket to success in 2024, Ajay Devgn has lined up two sequels this year. Director Raj Kumar Gupta’s Raid 2 is set to release on May 1, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. The film sees Devgn reprise his role as IRS officer Amay Patnaik, who conducts another high-stakes income tax raid. The cast includes Riteish Deshmukh, Vaani Kapoor, and Rajat Kapoor. The superstar also has the rom-com, De De Pyaar De 2, in which he reunites with his Shaitaan (2024) co-star R Madhavan.
Housefull 5
A new year, and there is a new instalment of Housefull. Housefull 5, led by Akshay Kumar and Riteish Deshmukh, comes five years after the last instalment. Tarun Mansukhani’s directorial venture promises to have everything you expect from the franchise—read an ensemble cast, a gag a minute and a wafer-thin plot. This one, also starring Abhishek Bachchan, Fardeen Khan, Jacqueliene Fernandez, and Nargis Fakhri, is largely set on a
luxury cruise.
Chhaava
After Sardar Udham (2021) and Sam Bahadur (2023), Vicky Kaushal leads his third biopic, this time playing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Based on the novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant, Laxman Utekar’s historical drama depicts Sambhaji Maharaj as a fierce warrior who upheld the Maratha legacy during his reign in the 17th century. Rashmika Mandanna portrays Yesubai Bhonsale, Sambhaji’s wife.
Yet-untitled film on C Sankaran Nair
You will definitely not miss Akshay Kumar this year, because the superstar has four releases lined up. This Karan Johar production, based on Indian lawyer and statesman C Sankaran Nair, chronicles how the lawyer challenged the British empire to acknowledge the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi and also starring Ananya Panday, it is an adaptation of the book, The Case that Shook the Empire. Kumar will also be seen in the Republic Day release, Skyforce, and Jolly LLB 3.
Alpha
A female spy is finally headlining a film in the YRF spy universe. Alia Bhatt joins the on-screen espionage world that is populated by Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif. Joining Bhatt in Shiv Rawail’s directorial venture is Sharvari, who caught people’s attention with Munjya last year. Alpha is scheduled for a Christmas 2025 release.
War 2
Two of the most popular superstars of the current crop, Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR are set to battle it out in the Independence Day release, War 2. Roshan returns as Kabir, the R&AW agent who went rogue in the 2019 blockbuster, War. The sequel to the spy thriller comes with new faces in front of and behind the camera. While RRR (2022) star Jr NTR makes his highly anticipated Bollywood debut, director Ayan Mukerji takes the directorial baton from Siddharth Anand. Added to the mix are Kiara Advani, and a potential crossover with Shah Rukh Khan’s Pathaan and Salman Khan’s Tiger.
Thug Life
In June, we’ll witness the reunion of two icons. More than 35 years after they first collaborated on Nayakan (1987), superstar Kamal Haasan and director Mani Ratnam have reunited for Thug Life. The Tamil gangster action drama features a pan-India cast, including Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Pankaj Tripathi, Sanya Malhotra, Ali Fazal and Rohit Saraf. To top it all, Oscar winner AR Rahman, who composed for Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan 1 and 2, has lent the score for the upcoming film.
Deva
Following his romantic turn in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya last year, Shahid Kapoor is in the mood for mayhem. He turns a no-nonsense cop in the January release, Deva. Expect high-octane action sequences and a rising body count in this action thriller that sees Malayalam filmmaker Rosshan Andrrews foraying into Hindi cinema.
Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari
It’s the year of Varun Dhawan’s return to the romance genre. In April, the actor will bring Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, also starring Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra and Rohit Saraf. It reunites Varun with his Dulhania franchise director Shashank Khaitan. He will follow it up with Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, marking his fourth collaboration with director-father David Dhawan.
Lahore 1947
Lahore 1947 is a case of something old and something new. While the period drama marks the fourth collaboration between actor Sunny Deol and director Rajkumar Santoshi, it marks the maiden union of the leading man with producer Aamir Khan. Also starring Preity Zinta, the film explores the emotional and physical journey of people caught in the turmoil of the Partition.
Ali Fazal to take paternity leave from June 30
9:08 AM
The actor, who is all set to embrace fatherhood, has planned to take four to five weeks off to focus on Richa and the soon-to-be born child
Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 23, 2024)
Actor-couple Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal are expecting the arrival of their first child in July. While Chadha, who was recently seen in Heeramandi, told us that she will be on maternity leave till October, we have now learnt that the soon-to-be dad is also set to take a month-long paternity break.
Fazal has three films in hand that he is currently working on — filmmaker Anurag Basu’s Metro...In Dino, Thug Life with actor Kamal Haasan and Lahore 1947 with actor Sunny Deol.
A source close to the actor informs us, “Ali is going to wrap up all his work by June 30 and will then take four to five weeks off to focus on Richa and their soon-to-be born child.”
Talking about the status of all his films, the source adds, “Ali has four to five days of shoot left for Metro...In Dino, and Lahore 1947 is almost up for completion. As for Thug Life, he will be wrapping up the majority of his shoot before the break. Only one schedule of the film will be left, which Ali will complete in August.”
Chadha and Fazal announced their pregnancy in February, and the couple was actively working throughout the phase. Recently, in a chat, the soon-to-be mum told us about her husband that “he is very hands-on, and he is timing his work commitments also accordingly”.
She added, “I think fathers should always be around. It’s not just about helping the mother, but also about getting time with the child.”
This year has turned out to be quite extraordinary for me, despite the global writers’ strike-Ali Fazal
9:53 AM
Ali says he benefited from WGA strike as his free schedule helped him do several Indian films, including Metro In Dino
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 20, 2024)
The bad news is that the Writers Guild of America strike, which took place between May and September 2023, halted Ali Fazal’s productions in Hollywood. The good news is that it opened up his schedule and gave him the opportunity to be part of many Bollywood projects. The actor is now looking forward to the release of his offerings that include the third season of Mirzapur, Metro...In Dino, Thug Life alongside Kamal Hassan, and Lahore 1947.
Only days after the trailer of Mirzapur 3 was released, Fazal says that following last year’s setback, 2024 has become one of the best years of his career. “This year has turned out to be quite extraordinary for me, despite the global writers’ strike. I had to take a break from international work. But I’m thrilled to be part of Anurag sir’s film, Mani Ratnam sir’s Thug Life, as well as Lahore 1947. It gave me a chance to explore a variety of roles in a short time,” shares the actor.
While Metro...In Dino has an ensemble cast that includes Sara Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur and Fatima Sana Shaikh, Rajkumar Santoshi’s film will see him share screen space with Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta.
Fazal’s pursuit for novel stories was also rewarded earlier this year when his maiden production Girls Will Be Girls bagged two awards at the Sundance Film Festival.
“We’ve also announced five other projects. Our idea is to nurture new talents and ourselves. This is also a time where we are nurturing our personal lives,” beams the actor, who is expecting his first child with actor-wife Richa Chadha.
The opportunity to collaborate with two stalwarts of Indian cinema has been humbling-Ali Fazal
8:21 AM
Ali says he is honoured to work with Haasan and Ratnam as he joins Thug Life shoot; to film in Delhi’s bustling markets over next few days
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 9, 2024)
Ali Fazal had wished for it, even pictured in his head how it would be if he ever got the opportunity to work with Mani Ratnam. But years of hoping had not prepared him for the surprise that is Thug Life. The action drama not only marks the actor’s first collaboration with the filmmaker, but also sees him share screen space with his childhood hero Kamal Haasan. Fazal, who has joined the Delhi shoot, says he is a mixed bag of emotions—from excitement to pride and nervousness—but above all, he feels a deep sense of honour to work with the two masters of the craft.
“I am thrilled to be a part of Mani sir’s vision, and I can only hope to bring something of significance to this canvas. It’s an honour to work alongside Kamal Haasan sir and share notes with him. The opportunity to collaborate with two stalwarts of Indian cinema has been humbling,” says the actor about his maiden Tamil project.
Announced in November 2022, Thug Life sees Haasan and Ratnam reuniting 37 years after their acclaimed Nayakan (1987). This time around, they have jointly written the script of the ambitious action drama that also stars Trisha, Silambarasan, Abhirami, Pankaj Tripathi and Sanya Malhotra. While Haasan kicked off the shoot in January with a schedule in Chennai, the team began the second stint in the capital this month.
A source reveals, “This week, Fazal will shoot a few sequences at some iconic markets of Delhi. The team has procured the necessary permissions to film at such busy places. Late next week, the shoot will move to Chennai where it will go on till May-end.”
We hear Fazal will report back to Thug Life’s set only in August after wrapping up Anurag Basu’s Metro... In Dino in June. The source adds, “He has kept his July dates free as Richa [Chadha, actor-wife] and he are expecting the arrival of their baby then. In August, he will juggle Mani sir’s shoot with the promotions for the third season of Mirzapur.”
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