Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life stirs debate: fallen legend or changing tastes?

Mani Ratnam’s latest film, Thug Life, has ignited a spirited debate among fans and critics alike, questioning whether the director’s style is evolving or if the film simply fails to meet the towering expectations set by his earlier masterpieces.

After a day of analysis, many viewers expressed disappointment, prompting introspection about the filmmaker’s current creative direction. One fan on X highlighted this contrast by sharing memorable scenes from Mani Ratnam’s 1987 classic Nayakan, reminding audiences of the director’s past brilliance.

Another fan drew comparisons with the 1991 film Thalapathi, posting a poignant scene where Surya explains the plight of the poor to Arjun (Arvind Swamy). The fan wrote, "One film celebrated the day it released. One film celebrated on its rerelease. Thalapathi — Mani Ratnam’s timeless classic made to last forever."

This discourse raises the question: "Have audiences grown out of liking Mani’s style, or did the filmmaker not live up to his own legend?" The debate underscores the challenges faced by iconic directors in balancing legacy with contemporary storytelling.

As Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life continues to polarize opinions, it reflects broader shifts in cinematic tastes and the high bar set by the director’s earlier works, leaving fans to ponder the future trajectory of his filmmaking.

Mani Ratnam’s latest film, Thug Life, has sparked debate among fans, with many reflecting on whether the director’s style no longer resonates or if the film simply falls short of his earlier classics like Nayakan and Thalapathi. The discussion highlights changing tastes and high expectations for the filmmaker.