Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam Collaborate on Film 'KH234' Titled 'Thug Life'

In a previous report, it was mentioned that the iconic actor Kamal Haasan and renowned filmmaker Mani Ratnam are coming together for a film, marking their collaboration 35 years after the celebrated gangster drama "Nayakan." The makers have recently unveiled the title of their upcoming project, naming it "Thug Life." Notably, this film boasts a stellar cast, including Trisha, Dulquer Salmaan, and Jayam Ravi, who will play pivotal roles in the production.

The announcement video is a visual spectacle, featuring Kamal Haasan in the role of Rangaraya Sakthivel Naicker, a name that holds special significance for fans as it pays homage to his character in "Nayakan." In the video, Kamal Haasan, draped in a white robe, confronts a group of henchmen who label him as a criminal, a goonda, and a Yakuza. He dramatically sheds his robe to reveal a unique white outfit before engaging in a thrilling action sequence, leaving the audience intrigued about the potential connection between "Thug Life" and "Nayakan."

This highly-anticipated film is being 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. Notably, the movie features some of the director's long-time collaborators, including the renowned music composer A.R. Rahman and the accomplished editor Sreekar Prasad.

Cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran, known for his work on Mani Ratnam's previous films like "Kannathil Muthamittal" and "Aayutha Ezhuthu," is responsible for capturing the visuals in "Thug Life." The action choreography is in the capable hands of the Anbariv masters, who previously worked with Kamal on "Vikram." Sharmishta Roy and Ekha Lakhani have been enlisted as the production designer and costume designer, respectively, to contribute to the film's overall aesthetic.

"Thug Life" is set to grace the silver screen in 2024, and fans are eagerly anticipating this grand cinematic reunion of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam.