Kamal Haasan who has co-written the script of Thug Life. an upcoming gangster action drama film that is directed by Mani Ratnam explores the future of storytelling in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
As the global media and entertainment industry converges at #NABShow2025 in Las Vegas, Kamal Haasan takes center stage — representing India on one of the most significant platforms for storytelling and technology.
Known for challenging conventions and pushing cinematic boundaries, Haasan’s presence at NAB is both timely and telling. As the industry navigates the future of storytelling in the age of AI, immersive experiences, and evolving audience expectations, Haasan brings decades of innovation and insight to the global conversation.
His appearance also comes at a key moment. With Thug Life — directed by Mani Ratnam and produced by Raaj Kamal Films International — gearing up for release, anticipation is high. The recently released behind-the-scenes video featuring Mani Ratnam, Kamal Haasan, and A.R. Rahman has already sparked major buzz, offering a glimpse into a project that merges craft, scale, and a bold creative vision.
This action thriller marks a full-fledged reunion of Kamal Haasan and the director Mani Ratnam after 35 years since the release of their cult film Nayakan in 1987. The actor informed that they were taking time on the development and pre-production of this film as he and the director wanted the film to be as strong as their epic crime drama = Nayakan.
Thug Life is produced by Kamal Haasan, Mani Ratnam, R. Mahendran, and Siva Ananth under the banners of Raaj Kamal Films International and Madras Talkies. The film stars Haasan as Rangaraaya Sakthivel Naicker alongside Silambarasan TR, Trisha Krishnan, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, Nasser, Ali Fazal and Abhirami. With music by A.R. Rahman and direction by Mani Ratnam, the film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on June 5, 2025.
– By JYOTHI VENKATESH
