Kamal Haasan’s character in the upcoming film ‘Thug Life‘ has been revealed as Rangaraya Sakthivel Naicker, which has sparked speculation about a possible connection to Kamal and Mani Ratnam’s iconic 1987 film ‘Nayakan.’ This collaboration between the veteran actor and filmmaker is occurring 35 years after the release of ‘Nayakan.’ Along with Kamal Haasan, the film will feature Trisha, Dulquer Salmaan, and Jayam Ravi in significant roles.
In the visually stunning announcement video, Kamal Haasan portrays Rangaraya Sakthivel Naicker, a name that holds significance as it was Kamal’s character’s name in ‘Nayakan.’ The video showcases Kamal confronting a group of henchmen and, as they approach, he unveils a distinctive white outfit before engaging in an intense brawl. The connection between ‘Thug Life’ and ‘Nayakan’ remains undisclosed.
The 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 reunites the director with his longtime collaborators, music composer A.R. Rahman and 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 the film’s cinematography. Action choreography is being handled by the Anbariv masters, who previously collaborated with Kamal on ‘Vikram.’ Sharmishta Roy and Ekha Lakhani are onboard as the production designer and costume designer, respectively.