Thug Life (2025) Movie Review  – Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam’s Masterpiece Comeback

Release Date:5 June 2025
Director: Mani Ratnam
Main Cast: Kamal Haasan, Simbu, Trisha, Joju George
Music: A. R. Rahman
Language: Tamil (Dubbed – Hindi, Telugu)
Genre: Action | Drama | Social Crime Thriller

Thug Life Movie Review – “A Rising Voice Against Every System”

Have you ever wondered that if the most calm and simple person in society has to face injustice again and again, will he not revolt? Thug Life is the answer to this question. This film is a story that shakes the audience by bringing together social system, politics and human courage.

Story of Thug Life (Spoiler-Free Summary)

The story is about a man who lives a simple life and is repeatedly broken and suppressed, but then he recognizes the fire within him and becomes a ‘thug’ – but for the good of society. This is not the story of any ordinary criminal, it is the rebellion of a hero, who picks up the gun but for justice.

Politics, corruption, police system, and public emotions have been shown very accurately in the film. This film is not just a story of action, but a voice of deep thought, pain and revolution.

Performance of the actors

🔹 Kamal Haasan
His character in the film not only has grey shades, but he sets the screen on fire with his acting in every scene. His facial expressions, dialogue delivery and emotional depth touch you deeply.

🔹 Simbu
Simbu’s performance in a brave and passionate role is superb. His character is the backbone of the film.

🔹 Trisha
Her role is small but strong. She maintains balance throughout the film and looks powerful in every scene.

🔹 Joju George
Her entry is strong and her screen presence adds gravitas to the film.

Music and Background Score

While Kamal Haasan is the soul of the film, A.R. Rahman’s music is the voice of the soul. His background score is extremely powerful, especially in the revolutionary scenes.

Talking about the songs, tracks like ‘Nee Vaanam’ and ‘Ulagam Maari Pogudhe’ touch the heart and match the tone of the film.

 Direction and Cinematography

Mani Ratnam is at his best in this film. He has created a world that looks both real and cinematic.

The layering of the story is very deep

Cinematography – Dark tones, deep camera movement, stunning

Locations – Beautiful mix of South Indian interiors and urban backdrops

Editing – Tight, no wasted scenes

Rating Breakdown (out of 5)

Element Rating                       ⭐
Story                                         ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Acting                                       ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Direction                                   ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Music                                        ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Cinematography                      ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Dialogues and Emotions        ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Should you watch Thug Life?

Absolutely yes!
If you want to watch a powerful, content-based, social message film with brilliant acting, amazing music and strong direction – do not miss Thug Life.

This film not only gives a cinematic experience but also makes you think.

Final Thoughts (Verdict)

Thug Life is an offering from the duo of Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan that will be considered a cult classic in the years to come. The film is not only entertaining but also has a deep social message hidden in it.