'We are sorry': Mani Ratnam apologizes after 'Thug Life' flops
23 Jun 2025

The recent pan-India release Thug Life marked the reunion of two legendary cinematic figures: Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam.

However, it failed to work at the box office, greatly disappointing fans nationwide.

The director has now issued an apology to fans who were expecting another iconic film like Nayakan from them.

"I apologize to those who hoped for another Nayakan from us. Our intention was never to revisit the past," Telugu 360 quoted him as saying.

'The audience anticipated a product....'
Director's statement

Ratnam further added, "We aimed to explore something entirely new. I believe the issue was not just heightened expectations; it was rather a misconception about what we would deliver."

"The audience anticipated a product vastly different from what we offered."

The movie marked Haasan and Ratnam's reunion after three decades, so the expectations were high.

Haasan to take break from acting, says source
Actor's hiatus

Meanwhile, Haasan has decided to take a break after the film's failure.

A close associate of Kamal revealed to the portal that he was affected by the film's poor performance.

"The immediate backlash upon its release took both of them by surprise. Kamal is not looking to take on new projects soon," they said.

However, Haasan has not officially announced a break yet.

Thug Life, released on June 5, also stars Ali Fazal, Trisha, and Mahesh Manjrekar.