In a long-anticipated collaboration, legendary actor Kamal Haasan and renowned filmmaker Mani Ratnam are joining forces for a film, marking 35 years since their iconic gangster drama ‘Nayakan.’ The film has been officially titled ‘Thug Life,’ and it promises to be an exciting venture with an ensemble cast that includes Trisha, Dulquer Salmaan, and Jayam Ravi in pivotal roles.
The announcement of ‘Thug Life’ was accompanied by a beautifully shot video that showcases Kamal Haasan as Rangaraya Sakthivel Naicker, a name that holds special significance for fans as it was the character Kamal portrayed in ‘Nayakan.’ The video features Kamal Haasan cloaked in a white robe, engaged in a face-off with a group of henchmen. As the tension builds, Kamal dramatically unveils a unique, white outfit before taking on the henchmen in a stylish brawl. While the connection between ‘Thug Life’ and ‘Nayakan’ remains shrouded in mystery, the teaser has left fans eager for more.
Produced by Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, R. Mahendran, and Siva Ananth under the banners of Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies, the film will reunite the director with his regular collaborators, music composer AR Rahman and editor Sreekar Prasad.
Cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran, known for his work on Mani Ratnam’s earlier films such as ‘Kannathil Muthamittal’ and ‘Aayutha Ezhuthu,’ will be behind the camera for ‘Thug Life.’ The action choreography will be orchestrated by the Anbariv masters, who previously worked with Kamal Haasan on ‘Vikram.’ Sharmishta Roy and Ekha Lakhani have been enlisted as the production designer and costume designer, respectively.
‘Thug Life’ is eagerly anticipated and is slated for a theatrical release in 2024, promising an exciting cinematic experience for audiences.