Thug-Life-Romance-Sparks-Controversy-Mani-Ratnam-Breaks-SilenceMani Ratnam responds to the Thug Life age-gap debate. “Judge the story, not the actors.”

 

Mani Ratnam has addressed the criticism surrounding the age-gap romance in his upcoming film Thug Life. The trailer sparked controversy after showing 70-year-old Kamal Haasan in romantic scenes with Trisha Krishnan, 42, and Abhirami, 41. Many questioned the decision to show a 28-year age gap on screen and sparking criticism on social media..

 

Ratnam Defends Casting and On-Screen Relationships Reflecting Real Life

 

Responding in an interview, Ratnam defended the portrayal. He said relationships with large age gaps exist in real life and should not face different judgment in cinema. “It is a fact of life,” he said. “It’s been like that for a long time. When it appears in cinema, people try to find fault with it or ignore what’s happening in society.”

 

Focus Should Be on the Story, Not Real Ages

 

Ratnam emphasized that the story should be the focus, not the actors’ real ages. He stated, “It’s not Kamal Haasan and Trisha Krishnan. It’s about their characters. Watch how the relationship builds in the film before passing judgment.”

 

Thug Life Trailer Sparks Debate Over Romantic Scenes

 

The Thug Life trailer showed Kamal romancing both Trisha and Abhirami, 41. The scenes quickly drew criticism for romanticizing large age differences. However, Ratnam remained firm. He urged audiences to see the film in context before forming opinions.

 

Trailer Triggers Online Backlash

 

The backlash began when the Thug Life trailer showed Kamal romancing both Trisha and Abhirami. Social media reactions ranged from criticism to confusion over the repeated use of younger female leads opposite older male stars.

 

Thug Life is Still Highly Anticipated

 

Despite the controversy, Thug Life remains highly anticipated. It marks Ratnam and Haasan’s first project together in 38 years since their 1987 cult classic Nayakan. The film, co-written by the duo, also stars Silambarasan TR, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Nassar, Pankaj Tripathi, and others.

 

A Reunion After Decades with a Star-Studded Cast

 

Thug Life marks Ratnam and Haasan’s reunion after 38 years, their last collaboration being the classic Nayakan in 1987. The upcoming gangster drama also stars Silambarasan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Ashok Selvan, and others. The film is set to release on June 5, 2025.

Strong Buzz Surrounds Thug Life’s Upcoming Release

Produced by Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies, Thug Life has generated strong buzz, both positive and controversial.