Thug Life: Cast, Plot, Music & Everything You Need To Know About Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam's Grand Film

It's the cinematic reunion fans have waited over three decades for. Veteran actor Kamal Haasan and legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam are joining forces once again for Thug Life, a high-octane Tamil action drama that promises to be nothing short of spectacular. After 36 years since their cult classic Nayakan left an indelible mark on audiences, the powerhouse duo is back to recreate magic on the big screen.

From an ensemble cast to gripping plot elements and soul-stirring music, here's everything you need to know about Thug Life, a film that's generating massive buzz.

Plot of Thug Life

The film is set in a world shaped by criminals. The periodic gangster action drama is all set to hit the big screens on June 5, 2025.

In the gripping teaser, one can see Kamal Haasan stepping into the role of Rangarayar Sakthivel Naiker, a mysterious figure entrenched in the world of crime. He defines the term yakuza, the Japanese equivalent of a gangster, before unveiling a striking martial arts-inspired costume, hinting at the film's intense action and global influences.

Stellar cast

Thug Life stars Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan and Silambarasan in the lead roles. Bollywood actors like Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Rohit Saraf and Sanya Malhotra are also a part of the multi-starrer film.

Besides, the film also features some of the most talented names from the film industry including Mahesh Manjrekar, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Nassar, Rajshri Deshpande, Abhirami, Tanikella Bharani, Chinni Jayanth, and many more.

The stellar casting has already raised expectations of the audiences. Earlier, Dulquer Salmaan was supposed to be a part of the film, however, according to media reports, he backed out in 2023 due to scheduling conflicts.

Music of Thug Life

On Friday (April 18), the makers launch the film's first song, Jinguchaa, at a grand event in Chennai.

Set against the backdrop of a wedding celebration, Jinguchaa features Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan dancing to a track that is quintessential AR Rahman, where earthy folk rhythms meet contemporary flair. With lyrics penned by Kamal Haasan, the song carries a playful charm and spirited energy, offering a vibrant first look into the world of Thug Life.

The film's music and background score are composed by maestro AR Rahman, marking his third collaboration with Kamal Haasan after Indian (1996) and Thenali (2000), and an incredible 19th partnership with Mani Ratnam.

Thug Life was officially announced in November 2022 under the tentative title Kamal Haasan 234, as it is the actor's 234th film as a lead actor, however, this was later changed.