Latest news with #ManiRatnam
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
When and Where to Watch Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR's ‘Thug Life'
The highly anticipated action-drama Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR , is all set for a digital premiere. Directed by legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam, the film brings together two generations of Tamil cinema icons in a powerful story packed with action, emotion, and drama. Thug Life has generated significant buzz ever since it was announced, not only for its star-studded cast but also for marking another collaboration between Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after decades. Adding to the excitement, Silambarasan TR joins the ensemble in a pivotal role, raising expectations among fans. The film will be available to stream in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam, making it accessible to audiences across South India. This multilingual release strategy ensures that Thug Life connects with a broad spectrum of viewers, regardless of their regional language preference. Set against a gritty backdrop, Thug Life explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and power. With Mani Ratnam at the helm, viewers can expect a visually rich narrative, compelling character arcs, and a strong emotional core. The film also boasts high production values, intense action sequences, and a haunting musical score that adds depth to the storytelling. Kamal Haasan's commanding screen presence, combined with Silambarasan's energetic performance, is expected to be a major highlight. The duo's on-screen chemistry, supported by a strong ensemble cast, is sure to make Thug Life a memorable cinematic experience. Thug Life will have its digital premiere on July 4, only on Netflix.
Pink Villa
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
'Mani Ratnam doesn't like my films, and I don't like Mani's films': Ram Gopal Varma makes an explosive statement
Filmmakers Ram Gopal Varma and Mani Ratnam have frequently collaborated on projects in the past. However, it was recently that the former mentioned how he dislikes films made by his colleague, specifically the iconic film Nayakan, starring Kamal Haasan. Furthermore, Ram Gopal Varma mentioned that Mani Ratnam, too, does not like some of his movies. Why don't Ram Gopal Varma and Mani Ratnam like each other's films? In a recent interview on MPower Podcast, Ram Gopal Varma bluntly revealed that he and Mani Ratnam don't really like each other's films. Despite both of them having collaborated in the past and being renowned filmmakers in their own merit, the Sarkaar 3 director commented on the kind of equation the duo have with one another. RGV said, 'Mani Ratnam doesn't like my films, and I don't like Mani's films. That's our relationship.' RGV expresses dislike for Kamal Haasan's Nayakan Continuing with his revelation, Ram Gopal Varma specifically spoke about one of Mani Ratnam's classic films, Nayakan, starring Kamal Haasan. RGV then revealed how, despite the performances in the movie being good, he did not quite like it. He went on to recall his past with the Thug Life director and dismissed any influence the former had on his own career. RGV clarified that although he likes Mani Ratnam as a person, the two of them have very different visions for their films. In his words, 'We like each other as people. I think we both wanted to make our own films. He didn't listen to one idea of mine, and I didn't listen to one idea of his. So we made our own films. He has got his unique way, and I have my own style. So I think two creatively strong-minded people collaborating, it can't happen." Mani Ratnam's recent debacle with Thug Life Fast forward to now, Mani Ratnam is in the spotlight after his last directed film, Thug Life, underperformed at the box office. Marking his reunion with Kamal Haasan after Nayakan, the film did not meet expectations and stumbled at crossing less than Rs. 100 crore mark worldwide.
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Kamal Haasan, Vijay, Rajinikanth: When reuniting with old directors doesn't always guarantee a 'Nayagan' or 'Mersal'
In the changing landscape of Tamil cinema, stars face a crucial decision in choosing a director for their next film. Reuniting with an old trusted director or teaming up with a new talent? This decision has the power to elevate or derail a star's journey. Both approaches have strengths, but audience expectations, story, and context determine success. The power and pressure of reunions Old alliances create a unique impact in Kollywood. Rajinikanth-Shankar collaborations like 'Sivaji' and 'Enthiran' have been record-breaking box office hits and have captivated generations. The Vijay-Atlee duo delivered 'Theri', 'Mersal,' and 'Bigil', creating a string of hits. But not all old alliances are successful. Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam 's 'Thug Life' failed to make the same impact as 'Nayagan' and faced criticism. This shows that old alliances often come under the pressure of expectations. Fresh director, fresh perspective There is a special charm when teaming up with a new director. Dhanush-Maari Selvaraj's 'Karnan' captivated audiences with a strong village story. Similarly, Rajinikanth-Karthik Subbaraj's 'Petta' impressed the audience by combining the superstar's old charm and new perspective. The vision and experience of a new director give an actor the opportunity to create new roles, which can take the star to new heights. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Thị trường có dấu hiệu suy thoái không? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Reunions vs fresh collaborations Both approaches have their pros and cons. Teaming up with an old director is a strong friendship and understanding, and it also brings with it the expectations of the fans. But there is also the pressure to surpass previous successes. Meanwhile, the strength of teaming up with a new director is the opportunity to create a new vision, new storytelling opportunities, and an environment that faces new challenges. But there is also the risk of failure. Story matter most In the end, what matters more than which path is best is a good story, strong direction, and the actor's search for innovation. No matter which director you team up with, new or old, only if the story and character are conducive to the actor's development will that partnership create a breakthrough in Tamil cinema. When the needs of the times, the desires of the fans, and the strength of the story come together in one place, a star can use any path to success. 'Even if I work with Vijay or SRK, I treat every film like the first. New ideas matter more than familiarity', said Atlee in a public event post the success of 'Jawan'. 'Fresh stories and fresh teams excite me. It gives a chance to show a different side of myself' said Dhanush when team up with Mari Selvaraj for 'Karnan'. 'Reuniting with old friends like Mani Ratnam feels like going back home. But working with new talents reminds me why I fell in love with acting' said Kamal Haasan about his reunion with Mani Ratnam for 'Thug Life.' 'Kaithi 2': Here's how Lokesh Kanagaraj and makers plan on 'Kaithi's sequel A timeless truth: Good stories build legends In today's era, audiences expect the new and the old equally. Memorable stories, strong visuals, and the hard work of the actors are the key to a film's success. So whatever path a star chooses, it should be one that showcases their individuality and delights their fans. Whether the director is old or new, the core of that collaboration is a good story. A good story is what turns a star, a director, and a film into a memorable story.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Ram Gopal Varma reveals he does not like Mani Ratnam's films: 'He didn't listen to one idea of mine and doesn't like my films'
Filmmakers Mani Ratnam and Ram Gopal Varma are some of the well-known filmmakers in the South, and the duo have also made their mark in Bollywood. In a recent interview, Ram Gopal revealed that he does not like Mani Ratnam's movies, and the 'Ponniyin Selvan' director also does not like Ram Gopal's films. He also shared that there is no chance of them collaborating in the future. Ram Gopal Varma and Mani Ratnam do not like each other's movies In a candid conversation on the MPower podcast, Ram Gopal said, 'I'm not really a fan of Nayakan. Actually, Mani doesn't like any of my films. I don't like Mani's films. That's like our relationship,' he stated. Actor Kamal Haasan Loses Cool Over Sword Gift Stunt at MNM Meet Amid Language Row Fallout Varma shared that Kamal Haasan 's performance in Nayakan stood out, but the film as a whole didn't resonate with him. The filmmaker added that it might have happened due to his keen knowledge about Kamal's character in the movie, Varadarajan Mudaliar. Ram had already explored a lot about Varadarajan, the Mumbai underworld don, on his own. Ram Gopal Varma about creative differences with Mani Ratnam Varma credits the late veteran filmmaker K. Balachander as a source of cinematic inspiration. Balachander, who also produced Ratnam's Roja, left a lasting impression on Varma's approach to storytelling and editing. 'In fact, recently, I was watching a Tamil/Telugu film of his, I don't remember. I was surprised to see how similar my cuts are. Obviously, because I learnt from him,' Varma noted. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Your Finger Shape Says a Lot About Your Personality, Read Now Tips and Tricks Undo Varma and Mani Ratnam worked together on Gaayam and Thiruda Thiruda as co-writers. In 1998, they teamed up as co-producers on 'Dil Se'. 'We like each other as people. I think we both wanted to make our own films. He didn't listen to one idea of mine, and I didn't listen to one idea of his. So we made our own films,' Varma shared. He further noted that they are both very song-minded people with a unique way of filmmaking. Ram was certain about the impracticality of 'two strong-minded creative people collaborating'. Mani Ratnam's Thug Life Mani Ratnam's recent release Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan, struggled to leave a mark at the box office and among critics and fans alike.
Pink Villa
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Kamal Haasan's film Thug Life faces Rs 25 lakh fine from National Multiplex Association over breach of contract
Mani Ratnam 's recently released film Thug Life made a disappointing run at the box office, despite the hype. Featuring a stellar cast of some of the biggest names in the industry, the movie did not work out well during its theatrical run. Amid reports about the makers considering an OTT release of the film sooner than expected, it seems the film has now received another huge blow. Thug Life faced heavy fine from National Multiplex Association? As per a report by The Hindu, Thug Life has now faced a massive fine from the National Multiplex Association over a breach of contract. As the movie failed to hit the mark, its previously set 8-week deal was changed and the OTT release date was preponed from before. Back then, the National Multiplex Association had allowed the movie to be streamed in their theaters based on this condition. However, with the changes of circumstances and situations, they have now levied a hefty fine of Rs. 25 lakh towards the makers for breach of contract. Netflix deal re-negotiated for Thug Life In other news, Thug Life is already facing a crisis with regards to its OTT deal. The makers who had partnered with Netflix for the online streaming had to re-negotiate a new deal with them, at an albeit lesser quoted price than before. For the unversed, the initial deal struck with Netflix was made on a whopping budget of Rs. 130 crore. Thug Life faced ban in Karnataka owing to Kamal Haasan's statement One of the other factors which seemingly contributed to the poor run of Thug Life at the box office was its ban on theatrical release in Karnataka. The movie was banned ahead of release by the Karnataka Film Chamber after one of Kamal Haasan 's statements hurt the sentiments of the Kannada-speaking community. Thug Life's final box office collection so far Speaking about box office numbers, the gangster action thriller ended its theatrical run at a disastrous mark of Rs. 93 crore only worldwide. The movie was unable to hit even the decent Rs. 100 crore mark at the box office which most high-valued Kollywood projects have easily hit within a few days. Thug Life has now joined the likes of the Tamil film Kanguva which had such a dismal run.
