Thug Life underperforms theatrically; Netflix questions massive Rs 130 crore OTT investment

The big-budget gangster drama Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan and Silambarasan TR, has not met expectations at the box office, prompting streaming giant Netflix to reconsider its existing OTT deal with the makers.

Originally released in theatres on June 5, 2025, the film marked the much-hyped reunion of Haasan with filmmaker Mani Ratnam after their cult collaboration Nayakan. While the project generated buzz and was sold to Netflix for a reported Rs 130 crore, its theatrical run has been anything but promising. Industry insiders now suggest that Netflix is seeking a renegotiation of the deal due to the film’s lackluster performance.

According to a report by Pinkvilla, the OTT platform may cut its payout by nearly 20–25%. The original valuation was based on the legacy of the Haasan–Ratnam partnership, but negative reviews and lukewarm audience response have made Netflix reconsider the financial viability of the deal.

Adding to the shift, there are murmurs that the digital premiere of Thug Life could be preponed. While an eight-week window had been earlier discussed, sources now hint at a possible release just four weeks after its theatrical debut.

Thug Life follows the story of Rangaraaya Sakthivel, a mafia leader in New Delhi who adopts a young boy named Amaran after a deadly shootout. The plot intensifies as the boy grows up to become a key figure in Sakthivel’s world, ultimately setting the stage for a father-son clash steeped in revenge. Apart from the lead duo, the film features a large ensemble including Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Abhirami, Ashok Selvan, Joju George, Nassar, and Ali Fazal in supporting roles. Despite the star-studded lineup and high production value, the film has failed to pull in crowds.

Looking ahead, Kamal Haasan is preparing for his next venture tentatively titled KH237, to be helmed by the AnbArivu director duo. Meanwhile, Silambarasan is said to be in talks with acclaimed filmmaker Vetrimaaran for an upcoming action film, with several other projects also lined up for him. As Netflix re-evaluates its deal, the final outcome may have wider implications for future big-ticket OTT acquisitions in the Indian film market.