Mani Ratnam Shares Insight On Crafting A Crime Drama For Gen Z

The team behind Thug Life directed by Mani Ratnam, is touring across Indian cities to promote the film ahead of its June 5th release. The story is based on an idea first shared by Kamal Haasan.

At a recent press meet in Mumbai, Mani Ratnam revealed that Kamal was the first to join the project. Only after that did the story start taking shape. He said they had many detailed discussions before finalizing the film.

When asked if the movie was made for Gen Z, Mani Ratnam laughed and said, “We ourselves are Gen Z!”

About the title Thug Life, he shared that Kamal Haasan suggested it, and the team felt it perfectly suited the story. Kamal added that many titles were considered, but only this one got Mani Ratnam’s approval.

The film is an emotional drama set in the world of crime, blending intense action with deep character-driven storytelling.

యష్ మమ్మీ రాక్స్ #Kothalavadi pic.twitter.com/ATQtlAq8VC

— Filmy Focus (@FilmyFocus) May 21, 2025