Thug Life (2024 film) explained

Director:Mani Ratnam
Cinematography:Ravi K. Chandran
Editing:A. Sreekar Prasad
Music:A. R. Rahman
Distributor:see below
Country:India
Language:Tamil

Thug Life is an upcoming Indian Tamil-language action drama film directed by Mani Ratnam, who co-wrote the script with Kamal Haasan. It is jointly produced by Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies and Red Giant Movies. The film stars Haasan, alongside Silambarasan, Joju George, Ali Fazal, Ashok Selvan, Pankaj Tripathi, Nassar, Trisha Krishnan, Abhirami Gopikumar, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Jisshu Sengupta, Sanya Malhotra, Rohit Saraf and Vaiyapuri. It signifies the reunion of Haasan and Ratnam, after their previous film Nayakan (1987).

The film was officially announced in November 2022 under the tentative title Kamal Haasan 234, as it is Haasan's 234th film as a lead actor, and the official title was revealed a year later. Principal photography commenced in January 2024 in Chennai along with a sporadic schedule in New Delhi, which was again followed by another schedule held at the former location. The film has music composed by A. R. Rahman, cinematography handled by Ravi K. Chandran and editing by A. Sreekar Prasad.

Thug Life is scheduled to release worldwide in 2024 in theatres.

Production

Development

In late 2002, Kamal Haasan unveiled plans for a film project titled Moo, which he intended to co-direct alongside filmmakers Mani Ratnam and Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. The screenplay was to explore the intricacies of the Rashomon effect, presenting audiences with three distinct interpretations of a single incident. However, Ratnam opted out of the project, citing his commitments to Aayutha Ezhuthu (2004), which used a similar narrative device. Undeterred by Ratnam's departure, Haasan proceeded with the concept, resulting in the creation of Virumaandi (2004). This film, centred on the interrogation of two prison inmates, retained the thematic essence of Moo.[1] Following a decade, in late 2012, Hollywood producer Barrie M. Osborne had approached to make Moo into an English film. The actor announced the project in February 2013, but it was later shelved.[2] [3]

Haasan, who did a voice-over for in 2022, announced on 6 November that he would work with Ratnam again for a project after the Ponniyin Selvan film series.[4] The project was funded by their and Udhayanidhi Stalin's companies, Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies and Red Giant Movies,[5] which also co-produced Haasan's Indian 2 (2024).[6] Tentatively titled Kamal Haasan 234, it marks a full-fledged reunion of the actor and director after 35 years since the release of their cult film Nayakan (1987).[7] Although the budget is yet to be revealed, the actor would be getting as his remuneration.[8] Haasan stated that they were taking time on the development and pre-production because him and Ratnam want to make the film as strong as Nayakan.[9] Stunt choreography duo Anbariv stated in October 2023 that the film would be an action film,[10] with it a few days later being touted as a gangster action drama film.[11] [12] The film's official title, Thug Life, was announced on 6 November 2023.[13]

Pre-production

Ratnam stated that the reason for why it took so long to collaborate, was that they did not find a suitable script for Haasan for years until they recently found one,[14] which he co-wrote along with Haasan. After Ponniyin Selvan: II released in 2023, Ratnam left to Kodaikanal to write the final script. It took four months for the writing and the pre-production.[15] A muhurat puja was held on 27 October 2023 at the headquarters of Raaj Kamal Films International in Chennai.[16] By then, the team began shooting for the promotional teaser,[17] which released on the eve of Haasan's birthday, and completed filming within three days.[18]

In mid-September 2023, Ravi K. Chandran was announced as cinematographer, marking his fourth film with Ratnam after Kannathil Muthamittal (2002), Aayutha Ezhuthu and Yuva (2004) and second with Haasan after the unfinished film Marudhanayagam.[19] A. R. Rahman would score the music, in his eighteenth consecutive film with the director.[20] He further retained his norm technicians including editor A. Sreekar Prasad, stunt choreography duo Anbariv and publicity designer Gopi Prasannaa. Amritha Ram would style Haasan along with his regular costume designers Eka Lakhani and Ambady Ranjith.[21] Chintu Mohapatra and S. Barani were appointed as the executive producers of the film by the production house.[22]

Casting

Haasan would sport several looks, with one of them resembling his short hairstyle from Sathyaa (1988).[23] The name of his character, Rangaraya Sakthivel Naicker, is a reference to his role as Sakthivel Naicker from Nayakan.[24] Silambarasan was cast in an important role,[25] in his second collaboration with Haasan, as the latter is the producer of STR 48, and second with Ratnam after Chekka Chivantha Vaanam (2018).[26] [27] Trisha Krishnan was also cast in an important role, in her third respective collaboration with Haasan and Ratnam after Manmadan Ambu (2010), Thoongaa Vanam (2015), Aayutha Ezhuthu and the Ponniyin Selvan film series.[28] [29] Abhirami Gopikumar also joined the film in an important role,[30] while Nassar was also cast in an important role.[31] Abhirami stated that she would paired opposite Haasan, reuniting with him after Virumaandi.[32]

Jayam Ravi,[33] Dulquer Salmaan,[34] Gautham Karthik,[35] Joju George,[36] and Aishwarya Lekshmi would play prominent roles.[37] Salmaan and Ravi were announced on 6 November 2023,[38] while Gautham, Joju and Lekshmi were in late-January 2024.[39] [40] Sanya Malhotra would also make her Tamil debut with the film.[41] Salmaan, however, was reported to have opted out in March, due to scheduling conflicts,[42] which was followed by reports of Ravi opting out too.[43] The actors, in addition to Gautham's, departure were confirmed in May when their names were omitted from a post by the production house.[44] Silambarasan was brought onboard to replace Salmaan, while Ashok Selvan was confirmed to have been brought onboard to replace Ravi.[45] [46] Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi and Vaiyapuri were present at the film's preliminary shooting, confirming their presence.[47] [48] In June 2024, it was announced that Rohit Saraf joined the film.[49]

Filming

Principal photography began with the first schedule on 24 January 2024 at a college in Shenoy Nagar.[50] [51] On 30 January, director Sudha Kongara, along with director Bejoy Nambiar, visited the sets and posted stills on X.[52] Haasan filmed a portion with Abhirami and Joju before he left to the United States to participate in the post-production works for Indian 2.[53] Ratnam began location hunts for the second schedule in early February at European countries, including Serbia.[54] Trisha revealed through her Instagram account on 21 February that she had joined the sets.[55] Initially, for the third schedule, the makers would travel to Siberia;[56] however, due to Haasan's political commitments and not being able to allot days, the schedule was postponed from starting.[57] In late April, Silambarasan and the makers headed to Rajasthan to film the promotional teaser for the actor, which released on 8 May.[58]

After completing the works there, on 21 April, they commenced the second schedule in New Delhi.[59] A sequence featuring Haasan, Silambarasan and around 200 background artists was reportedly shot behind the Red Fort on 23 April.[60] Both the actors, along with Nassar, Abhirami and Vaiyapuri began filming a portion on 6 May at the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple,[61] which went on for three hours from 6 am to 9 am, to avoid mid-day summer heat. After completing the filming there, they moved to Old Delhi to shoot a certain indoor sequence.[62] A picture featuring the actors at the temple was leaked to social media the same day,[63] forcing the makers to release an official announcement of Silambarasan two days later.[64] The team shot at Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Tughlaqabad Fort, Pataudi Palace and Old Delhi in this schedule. Malhotra was confirmed to have shot some scenes at the temple.[65]

The third schedule begun on 21 May at Chennai.[66] During this schedule, a reported love sequence featuring Silambarasan and Trisha was reported to have been filmed till 5 am.[67] Two song sequences, with one reportedly being a dappankuthu featuring Haasan and Silambarasan and another being choreographed by Brindha and featuring Trisha were shot during the schedule, with the latter having a four-day rehearsal.[68] [69] In early June, production moved to Pondicherry Airport for an action sequence, which would be filmed for three days.[70] On 6 June, Haasan, who took a short break after the song sequence, resumed filming his portions with the action sequence, along with Silambarasan and Ashok Selvan.[71] An incident with Joju occurred when the actor did a stunt, which was jumping from a helicopter, where he tripped and fell, leading to a fractured left foot.[72]

Post-production

On 29 July 2024, Hassan and Silambarasan began dubbing for their portions in the film.[73]

Music

Thug Life
Type:soundtrack
Artist:A. R. Rahman
Released:2024
Recorded:January 2024–present
Studio:Panchathan Record Inn and AM Studios, Chennai
Genre:Feature film soundtrack
Language:Tamil
Producer:A. R. Rahman
Prev Title:Raayan
Prev Year:2024
Year:2024
Next Title:Genie
Next Year:TBA

The songs and background score are composed by A. R. Rahman, in his third collaboration with Haasan after Indian (1996) and Thenali (2000); eighteenth with Ratnam.[74] "Thug Life Theme" is the song that was featured on the 3-minute promotional video, that released on the eve of Haasan's birthday.[75] Another song features lyrics written by the veteran actor.[76] Haasan stated the lyrics were written within an hour, and the song was produced in just a couple of hours.[77]

Release

Theatrical

Thug Life is scheduled to release in 2024 in theatres.[78] The makers are reportedly planning on releasing the film in November or December.[79]

Distribution

AP International and Home Screen Entertainment acquired the overseas distribution rights of the film for .[80] [81]

Controversy

In May 2024, shortly after Silambarasan's participation in the film was confirmed, producer Ishari K. Ganesh sent a notice to the makers demanding his removal, alleging there was an active "red card" issued by the Tamil Film Producers Council to the actor, prohibiting him from accepting new projects.[82] However, Silambarasan denied having received a red card.[83]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: 7 August 2022 . 'ஹே ராம்' படத்துக்கு வரவேற்பு பத்தல பத்தல, அதனால தான் 'விருமாண்டி'... நடிகர் கமல்ஹாசன்! . The reception of 'Hey Ram' is overwhelming, therefore only 'Virumandi'... Actor Kamal Haasan! . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20220811090211/https://ttncinema.com//kollywood/the-response-to-hey-ram-was-no-enough-to-me-says/cid8201245.htm . 11 August 2022 . 28 March 2024 . TTN Cinema . ta.
  2. News: 5 February 2013 . Kamal Haasan's next is titled Moo . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20180724153743/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Kamal-Haasans-next-is-titled-Moo/articleshow/18344858.cms . 24 July 2018 . 16 May 2024 . The Times of India.
  3. Web site: 14 February 2013 . Kamal Haasan's Hollywood venture named as All Are Kin . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20180222044033/https://www.kollytalk.com/cinenews/kamal-haasans-hollywood-venture-named-as-all-are-kin-82689.html . 22 February 2018 . 16 May 2024 . Kollytalk.
  4. Web site: 6 November 2022 . Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam to collaborate after 35 years, film tentatively titled KH 234 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20230709131545/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/kamal-haasan-and-mani-ratnam-to-collaborate-after-35-years-film-tentatively-titled-kh-234-8253251/ . 9 July 2023 . 13 September 2023 . The Indian Express.
  5. Web site: Ramachandran . Naman . Naman Ramachandran . 7 November 2022 . Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam Reunite on 'KH234,' 35 Years After Blockbuster 'Nayakan' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231106142400/https://variety.com/2022/film/asia/kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-film-1235425085/ . 6 November 2023 . 24 January 2024 . Variety.
  6. Web site: Subhakeerthana . S . 6 November 2022 . The Nayakan duo is back! Kamal Haasan to feature in a Mani Ratnam film after 35 years . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20230204193145/https://www.ottplay.com/news/the-nayakan-duo-is-back-kamal-haasan-to-feature-in-a-mani-ratnam-film-after-35-years/1bf28d153c281 . 4 February 2023 . 24 January 2024 . OTTPlay.
  7. News: 6 November 2022 . KH234 Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam join hands 35 years after 'Nayakan' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240114162231/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kh234-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-join-hands-35-years-after-nayakan/article66104203.ece . 14 January 2024 . 24 January 2024 . The Hindu.
  8. Web site: 3 April 2024 . Tamil Actors Salary Ranking – 2024 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240415161804/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33142/tamil-actors-salary-ranking-2024 . 15 April 2024 . 6 June 2024 . MovieCrow.
  9. News: 29 May 2023 . Kamal Haasan on 'KH 234': We are planning to make a strong film just like our first collaboration, 'Nayakan' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240606112834/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasan-on-kh-234-we-are-planning-to-make-a-strong-film-just-like-our-first-collaboration-nayakan/articleshow/100596253.cms . 6 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  10. Web site: 6 November 2023 . Stuntmasters AnbAriv say Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam's KH 234 a 'pure actioner': 'It will be of Hollywood standard' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231110003707/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/stuntmasters-anbariv-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-kh-234-actioner-hollywood-standard-9015672/ . 10 November 2023 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  11. Web site: 6 November 2023 . Kamal Haasan & Mani Ratnam's next titled 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240607010707/https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-mani-ratnams-next-titled-thug-life-2758736 . 7 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  12. Web site: Sundar . Anusha . 8 May 2024 . 5 gangster films you can watch as you wait for Thug Life to release . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240606130144/https://www.ottplay.com/news/cant-wait-for-thug-life-to-release-here-are-5-other-gangster-films-you-can-watch/fe80f678cf71 . 6 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  13. Web site: 6 November 2023 . KH234 is titled Thug Life: Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam team up for another gangster film . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240111160959/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/kh234-is-titled-thug-life-kamal-haasan-and-mani-ratnam-team-up-for-another-gangster-film-9015863/ . 11 January 2024 . 24 January 2024 . . en.
  14. Web site: 11 January 2024 . Mani Ratnam explains why it took so long for him to collaborate with Kamal Haasan again: 'It's tough…' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240602022331/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/mani-ratnam-explains-why-it-took-so-long-for-him-to-collaborate-with-kamal-haasan-again-101704969439186.html . 2 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . Hindustan Times.
  15. Web site: 1 June 2023 . Mani Ratnam begins pre-production on KH 234 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240606120913/https://www.dtnext.in/news/cinema/mani-ratnam-begins-pre-production-on-kh-234-716037 . 6 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  16. News: 27 October 2023 . Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam tease fans ahead of the promo release; 'KH 234' crew announced! . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231027183227/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasan-and-mani-ratnam-tease-fans-ahead-of-the-promo-release-kh-234-crew-announced/articleshow/104746266.cms . 27 October 2023 . 27 October 2023 . The Times of India.
  17. News: 17 October 2023 . 'KH 234': Kamal Haasan finalises his look for Mani Ratnam's directorial . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240124204821/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kh-234-kamal-haasan-finalises-his-look-for-mani-ratnams-directorial/articleshow/104487551.cms . 24 January 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  18. News: 25 October 2023 . 'KH 234': Kamal Haasan uses a body double for Mani Ratnam's film . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605125009/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kh-234-kamal-haasan-uses-a-body-double-for-mani-ratnams-film/articleshow/104694770.cms . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  19. Web site: 15 September 2023 . Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam to work on a special video for 'KH234'? - Buzz . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20230918163130/https://www.indiaglitz.com/kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-shoot-announcement-video-for-kh234-ar-rahman-trisha-jayam-ravi-dulquer-salmaan-tamil-news-342919 . 18 September 2023 . 6 June 2024 . IndiaGlitz.com.
  20. Web site: 27 October 2023 . KH234 officially launched; AR Rahman to compose . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240125084901/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/oct/27/kh234-officially-launched-ar-rahman-to-compose-48996.html . 25 January 2024 . 24 January 2024 . Cinema Express.
  21. Web site: 6 November 2023 . Stuntmasters AnbAriv say Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam's KH 234 a 'pure actioner': 'It will be of Hollywood standard' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231110003707/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/stuntmasters-anbariv-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-kh-234-actioner-hollywood-standard-9015672/ . 10 November 2023 . 24 January 2024 . The Indian Express.
  22. NEW THUG IN TOWN #ThugLife Kamal Haasan Mani Ratnam #STR AR Rahman RKFI MT RG . 7 May 2024 . . 5 June 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240529074450/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ut8ts6g-OE . 29 May 2024 . live . YouTube.
  23. News: 6 May 2024 . Kamal Haasan's avatar in 'Thug Life' inspired by 'Sathya'; Silambarasan's look also revealed . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240508073020/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasans-avatar-in-thug-life-inspired-by-sathya-silambarasans-look-also-revealed/articleshow/109878186.cms . 8 May 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  24. News: 6 November 2023 . 'Thug Life' is the title of Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam's 'KH234'; Trisha, Dulquer Salmaan, Jayam Ravi join cast . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231106122846/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/thug-life-is-the-title-of-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnams-kh234-trisha-dulquer-salmaan-jayam-ravi-join-cast/article67504087.ece . 6 November 2023 . 6 November 2023 . . en.
  25. Web site: Sundar . Anusha . 8 May 2024 . Silambarasan's look from Thug Life is out! Check out the racy photo of the actor from the deserts . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123457/https://www.ottplay.com/news/silambarasans-look-from-thug-life-is-out-check-out-the-racy-look-of-the-actor-from-the-deserts/f9e5f5c7bf761 . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  26. Web site: 2 February 2024 . It's Simbu vs Simbu in Kamal Haasan production STR 48, see poster . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123457/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/its-simbu-vs-simbu-in-kamal-hassan-production-str-48-see-poster-9140999/ . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  27. News: 13 April 2024 . Silambarasan finalises his new look for Mani Ratnam's directorial 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123501/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/silambarasan-finalises-his-new-look-for-mani-ratnams-directorial-thug-life/articleshow/109266310.cms . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  28. Web site: 31 May 2024 . Pic: Trisha spends fun evening with 'Thug Life' co-star Kamal Haasan . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240601083834/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/trisha-spends-fun-evening-with-thug-life-co-star-kamal-haasan-2546056-2024-05-31 . 1 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  29. Web site: 6 November 2023 . Trisha to collaborate with Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan in KH234 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123456/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/Nov/06/trisha-to-collaborate-with-mani-ratnam-and-kamal-haasan-in-kh234-49302.html . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  30. Web site: 6 May 2024 . Kamal Haasan and Simbu's leaked still from 'Thug Life' sets in Delhi goes viral . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123501/https://thesouthfirst.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-and-simbus-leaked-photo-from-thug-life-sets-in-delhi-goes-viral/ . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The South First . en.
  31. News: 2024-07-30 . Nasser and Abhirami join Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240730134502/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/nasser-and-abhirami-join-kamal-haasans-thug-life/articleshow/112127652.cms . 2024-07-30 . 2024-07-30 . The Times of India.
  32. Web site: 21 November 2023 . Kamal Haasan & Mani Ratnam's 'Thug Life' to go on the floors on this date? - Actress confirms . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231214135049/https://www.indiaglitz.com/kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-thug-life-shoot-start-date-actress-abhirami-reveals-trisha-dulquer-jayam-ravi-tamil-news-345923 . 14 December 2023 . 6 June 2024 . IndiaGlitz.com.
  33. Web site: Rajaraman . Kaushik . 27 February 2024 . 'I try to bring in new body language with each of my characters' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240227081307/https://www.dtnext.in/news/cinema/i-try-to-bring-in-new-body-language-with-each-of-my-characters-770462 . 27 February 2024 . 27 February 2024 . . en.
  34. Web site: 7 November 2023 . Dulquer Salmaan Joins Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240224102611/https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/southern_cinema/dulquer-salmaan-joins-kamal-haasans-thug-life-1503238622.html . 24 February 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en . ANI.
  35. News: 3 December 2023 . Gautham Karthik to join the cast of Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240302111748/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/gautham-karthik-to-join-the-cast-of-kamal-haasans-thug-life/articleshow/105705007.cms . 2 March 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  36. Web site: 10 January 2024 . Joju George and Gautham Karthik onboard Thug Life . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123458/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2024/Jan/10/joju-george-and-gautham-karthik-onboard-thug-life-51114.html . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  37. Web site: 11 January 2024 . Aishwarya Lekshmi comes onboard Kamal-starrer 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240111134435/https://www.dtnext.in/news/cinema/aishwarya-lekshmi-comes-onboard-kamal-starrer-thug-life-760509 . 11 January 2024 . 11 January 2024 . . en.
  38. News: 6 November 2023 . It's Official: Dulquer Salmaan, Trisha & Jayam Ravi join the cast of Kamal Haasan's 'KH 234' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240124211046/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/its-official-dulquer-salmaan-trisha-join-the-cast-of-kamal-haasans-kh-234/articleshow/105007988.cms . 24 January 2024 . 24 January 2024 . The Times of India.
  39. News: 10 January 2024 . Joju George and Gautham Karthik join the cast of Mani Ratnam – Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' . live . https://archive.today/20240110134230/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/joju-george-and-gautham-karthik-join-the-cast-of-mani-ratnam-kamal-haasans-thug-life/article67727189.ece . 10 January 2024 . 10 January 2024 . . en.
  40. Web site: 13 January 2024 . Actress Aishwarya Lekshmi To Act In Kamal Haasan-starrer Thug Life . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240117031624/https://www.news18.com/movies/actress-aishwarya-lekshmi-to-act-in-kamal-haasan-starrer-thug-life-8739081.html . 17 January 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  41. Web site: 10 May 2024 . Bollywood actor thrilled to team up with Kamal and Mani on Thug Life . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240522130827/https://www.123telugu.com/mnews/bollywood-actor-thrilled-to-team-up-with-kamal-and-mani-on-thug-life.html . 22 May 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  42. Web site: 5 March 2024 . Exclusive! Dulquer Salmaan Opts Out Of Kamal Haasan's Thug Life! . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240308152942/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/tamil/exclusive-dulquer-salmaan-opts-out-of-kamal-haasans-thug-life-article-108227250 . 8 March 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  43. News: 23 March 2024 . Did Jayam Ravi and Dulquer Salmaan drop out of Kamal Haasan starrer 'Thug Life'? Here is what we know... . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240327213434/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/did-jayam-ravi-and-dulquer-salmaan-drop-out-of-kamal-haasan-starrer-thug-life-here-is-what-we-know-/articleshow/108736855.cms . 27 March 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  44. News: 7 May 2024 . Official! Jayam Ravi and Dulquer Salman out; Silambarasan in for 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240507072223/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/official-jayam-ravi-and-dulquer-salman-out-silambarasan-in-for-thug-life/articleshow/109909049.cms . 7 May 2024 . 8 May 2024 . The Times of India.
  45. Web site: 8 May 2024 . Thug Life: Ashok Selvan latest addition to Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam film's updated cast . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240509035636/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33248/thug-life-kamal-haasan-ashok-selvan-mani-ratnam-cast-list . 9 May 2024 . 8 May 2024 . MovieCrow.
  46. Web site: 27 May 2024 . Actor confirms his involvement in Kamal Haasan's Thug Life . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240527104252/https://www.123telugu.com/mnews/actor-confirms-his-involvement-in-kamal-haasans-thug-life.html . 27 May 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  47. Web site: 29 April 2024 . Mani Ratnam, Kamal Haasan, Ali Fazal in New Delhi to shoot for 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240507213439/https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/regional-indian-cinema-news/article/mani-ratnam-kamal-haasan-ali-fazal-in-new-delhi-to-shoot-for-thug-life-23346661 . 7 May 2024 . 8 May 2024 . . en.
  48. Web site: Rawal . Sugandha . 23 April 2024 . Kamal Haasan heads to Delhi to shoot for Mani Ratnam's Thug Life alongside Pankaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240508131301/https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/kamal-haasan-heads-to-delhi-to-shoot-for-mani-ratnams-thug-life-alongside-pankaj-tripathi-and-ali-fazal-101713530051289.html . 8 May 2024 . 8 May 2024 . Hindustan Times.
  49. Web site: Rohit Saraf joins Kamal Haasan in Mani Ratnam's 'Thug Life' . . 1 July 2024 . https://archive.today/20240701005718/https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/rohit-saraf-joins-kamal-haasan-in-mani-ratnams-thug-life-1503314388.html . 1 July 2024 . en . 27 June 2024 . live.
  50. Web site: 24 January 2024 . Kamal Haasan-Mani Ratnam's 'Thug Life' shooting begins: Tale of power, rebellion . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240124112854/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-trisha-thug-life-shooting-begins-tale-of-power-rebellion-2492890-2024-01-24 . 24 January 2024 . 24 January 2024 . India Today.
  51. Web site: Rajaraman . Kaushik . 2024-01-05 . Kamal-Mani's Thug life shoot in Chennai from Jan 18 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240119015618/https://www.dtnext.in/news/cinema/kamal-manis-thug-life-shoot-in-chennai-from-jan-18-758945 . 19 January 2024 . 2024-06-09 . . en.
  52. Web site: 30 January 2024 . Director Sudha Kongara Shares Photos From Sets Of Mani Ratnam's Thug Life . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240130170017/https://www.news18.com/movies/director-sudha-kongara-shares-photos-from-sets-of-mani-ratnams-thug-life-8759702.html . 30 January 2024 . 30 January 2024 . News18.
  53. Web site: 1 February 2024 . Thug Life: Kamal Haasan to shoot in Siberia next for Mani Ratnam's film . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240405004424/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/32895/thug-life-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-latest-updates . 5 April 2024 . 6 June 2024 . MovieCrow.
  54. News: 8 February 2024 . 'Thug Life' next schedule to take place at THIS location; Mani Ratnam begins location hunt . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240210211626/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thug-life-next-schedule-to-take-place-at-this-location-mani-ratnam-begins-location-hunt/articleshow/107515447.cms . 10 February 2024 . 11 February 2024 . The Times of India.
  55. News: 21 February 2024 . Trisha joins the set of Kamal Haasan's Thug Life . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605090243/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/trisha-begins-shooting-for-thug-life-latest-news/articleshow/107876935.cms . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  56. News: 29 February 2024 . Kamal Haasan to travel to Siberia for 'Thug Life's next shooting schedule . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240316132531/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasan-to-travel-to-siberia-for-thug-lifes-next-shooting-schedule/articleshow/108106425.cms . 16 March 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  57. News: 22 March 2024 . Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' Serbia schedule pushed due to Lok Sabha Election . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605091750/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasans-thug-life-serbia-schedule-pushed-due-to-lok-sabha-election/articleshow/108702484.cms . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  58. Web site: R . Manoj Kumar . 22 April 2024 . Simbu join sets of Mani Ratnam-Kamal Haasan's Thug Life. See photos . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240606091117/https://www.ottplay.com/news/simbu-join-sets-of-mani-ratnam-kamal-haasans-thug-life-see-photos/40114ca4b1990 . 6 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  59. News: 22 April 2024 . In pics: The new schedule of 'Thug Life' begins in Delhi; Simbu joins . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240508131354/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/in-pics-the-new-schedule-of-thug-life-begins-in-delhi-simbu-joins/articleshow/109503033.cms . 8 May 2024 . 8 May 2024 . The Times of India.
  60. Web site: 23 April 2024 . Thug Life: Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR shoot for Mani Ratnam's film at Delhi . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240511015603/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33201/thug-life-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-silambarasan-tr . 11 May 2024 . 6 June 2024 . MovieCrow.
  61. Web site: 6 May 2024 . Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan's picture from sets of Thug Life leaks online . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605104028/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/kamal-haasan-and-silambarasan-s-picture-from-sets-of-thug-life-leaks-online-101714983477232.html . 5 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . Hindustan Times.
  62. News: 6 May 2024 . Kamal Haasan shoots for Mani Rathnam's 'Thug Life' at Aerocity Delhi . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240506054452/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasan-shoots-for-mani-rathnams-thug-life-at-aerocity-delhi/articleshow/109873444.cms . 6 May 2024 . 6 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  63. Web site: 6 May 2024 . Leaked pic: Kamal Haasan shoots with Simbu and others for 'Thug Life' in Delhi . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240506064615/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/leaked-pic-kamal-haasan-shoots-with-simbu-and-others-for-thug-life-in-delhi-2535662-2024-05-06 . 6 May 2024 . 6 May 2024 . . en.
  64. Web site: Gupta . Hardika . 8 May 2024 . Thug Life Teaser: Silambarasan In A Never-Seen Before Look . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240517092054/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/thug-life-teaser-silambarasan-in-a-never-seen-before-look-5617203 . 17 May 2024 . 6 June 2024 . NDTV.
  65. News: 6 May 2024 . Kamal Haasan shoots for Mani Rathnam's 'Thug Life' at Aerocity Delhi . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240506054452/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasan-shoots-for-mani-rathnams-thug-life-at-aerocity-delhi/articleshow/109873444.cms . 6 May 2024 . 7 May 2024 . The Times of India.
  66. News: 20 May 2024 . 'Thug Life' Chennai shooting schedule begins tomorrow! . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240522125229/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thug-life-chennai-shooting-schedule-begins-tomorrow/articleshow/110272373.cms . 22 May 2024 . 22 May 2024 . The Times of India.
  67. Web site: 25 May 2024 . Kamal Hassan's 'Thug Life' Takes Shape: Simbu and Trisha's Midnight Shoots with Mani Ratnam . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605130304/https://www.indiaglitz.com/kamal-hassan-s-thuglife-shooting-simbu-trisha-pull-all-nighters-tamil-news-355330 . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . IndiaGlitz.com.
  68. News: 31 May 2024 . 'Thug Life' to have a kuthu song featuring both Kamal Haasan and Simbu . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605130515/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thug-life-to-have-a-kuthu-song-featuring-both-kamal-haasan-and-simbu/articleshow/110594012.cms . 5 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . The Times of India.
  69. Web site: 23 May 2024 . Trisha Krishnan Preps For A Dance Sequence In Mani Ratnam's Thug Life, Calls It 'Gruelling' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240523081653/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/tamil/trisha-rehearses-for-a-dance-sequence-for-thug-life-article-110347419 . 23 May 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  70. Web site: 5 June 2024 . Latest update of Kamal Haasan's Thug Life is here . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123500/https://www.123telugu.com/mnews/latest-update-of-kamal-haasans-thug-life-is-here.html . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
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  72. Web site: 13 June 2024 . Actor Joju George injured during helicopter stunt on the sets of 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240613062005/https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2024/06/13/actor-joju-george-injured-stunt-scene-thug-life-movie.html . 13 June 2024 . 13 June 2024 . Onmanorama.
  73. Web site: 2024-07-29 . Watch: Kamal Haasan begins dubbing for Mani Ratnam's 'Thug Life' . 2024-07-30 . . en . 30 July 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240730135021/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kamal-haasan-begins-dubbing-for-mani-ratnam-thug-life-2573218-2024-07-29 . live .
  74. News: 13 June 2020 . I failed to notice AR Rahman in his prime: Kamal Haasan . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20231021062901/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/i-failed-to-notice-ar-rahman-in-his-prime-kamal-haasan/article31818939.ece . 21 October 2023 . 24 January 2024 . The Hindu.
  75. Thug Life KH234 Title Announcement Video Kamal Haasan Mani Ratnam AR Rahman RKFI MT RG . 6 November 2023 . . 24 January 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240124113701/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VChwoluq5-s . 24 January 2024 . live . YouTube.
  76. News: 29 April 2024 . Kamal Haasan turns a lyricist again for 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240507023755/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kamal-haasan-turns-a-lyricist-again-for-thug-life/articleshow/109664366.cms . 7 May 2024 . 8 May 2024 . The Times of India.
  77. Web site: Menon . Akhila . 28 April 2024 . Thug Life – Kamal Haasan turns lyricist yet again for the Mani Ratnam directorial . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605123457/https://www.ottplay.com/news/thug-life-kamal-haasan-turns-lyricist-yet-again-for-the-mani-ratnam-directorial/80b13b8099301 . 5 June 2024 . 6 June 2024 . . en.
  78. Web site: 8 May 2024 . Official: Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam's Thug Life to hit the screens this year . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605131139/https://www.123telugu.com/mnews/official-kamal-haasan-and-mani-ratnams-thug-life-to-hit-the-screens-this-year.html . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.
  79. Web site: 15 May 2024 . Thug Life: Release plans for Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR starrer . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240515181147/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33271/thug-life-kamal-haasan-silambarasan-tr-release-date-mani-ratnam . 15 May 2024 . 6 June 2024 . MovieCrow.
  80. Web site: 13 May 2024 . Thug Life: Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam film's overseas distribution rights sold! . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240524031354/https://www.moviecrow.com/News/33259/thug-life-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-distributor-overseas . 24 May 2024 . 14 May 2024 . MovieCrow.
  81. Web site: 15 May 2024 . Thug Life – Overseas rights bagged for 63 crores, highest for a Tamil film! . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240515160009/https://www.onlykollywood.com/thug-life-overseas-rights-bagged-for-63-crores-highest-for-a-tamil-film/ . 15 May 2024 . 16 May 2024 . Only Kollywood . en.
  82. Web site: 10 May 2024 . Famous producer files complaint against Simbu for acting in Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240510232155/https://www.indiaglitz.com/famous-producer-complaint-against-simbu-acting-in-thug-life-ishari-ganesh-producers-council-tamil-news-354679 . 10 May 2024 . 11 May 2024 . IndiaGlitz.com.
  83. Web site: Menon . Akhila . 2 June 2024 . Silambarasan opens up about Thug Life and STR 48; reacts to 'red card' rumours . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240605120804/https://www.ottplay.com/news/silambarasan-opens-up-about-thug-life-and-str-48-reacts-to-red-card-rumours/6f514a0818330 . 5 June 2024 . 5 June 2024 . . en.