Kamal Haasan’s high-budget action drama Thug Life continues to face roadblocks in Karnataka even after receiving a green signal from the Supreme Court. Distributors in the State are unwilling to release the film, citing a combination of controversy and commercial failure.

The film, directed by Mani Ratnam, hit theatres worldwide on June 5, 2025, but failed to release in Karnataka due to backlash over comments made by Mr. Haasan, where he stated at a promotional event that "Kannada language is born from Tamil." The statement sparked widespread protests, with several Kannada organisations and film exhibitors demanding an apology.

Court order fails to ease release woes

In response to these hurdles, the producers moved the Supreme Court, which directed the Karnataka government to ensure that freedom of expression and artistic rights are upheld. However, the court ruling hasn’t translated into theatre screenings.

Local distributors and theatre owners remain unmoved by the apex court’s decision, with many stating that they do not see any business potential in the film anymore, especially given its abysmal performance at the box office nationwide.

Box office disaster and lack of audience interest

Thug Life, made on an estimated budget of ₹300 crore, has failed to cross even ₹50 crore at the Indian box office after two weeks. The film, despite carrying heavy expectations owing to the reunion of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after 38 years, has largely disappointed both critics and fans.

Distributors claim that poor word of mouth, coupled with strong competition from other big releases like Kuberaa and Sitaare Zameen Par, has made Thug Life an unviable commercial option.

Speaking to media, Aravind, a senior distributor from Bengaluru, said:

“Distributors are focused on upcoming releases. The verdict on Thug Life is clear – it's a commercial disaster. No one wants to pick a film that won't fill seats.”

KFCC distances itself from boycott calls

M. Narasimhalu, chairman of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), clarified that the chamber never imposed a formal ban on the film:

“We merely stood with the sentiments expressed by Kannada organisations. It was never about banning the film. We only said Kamal Haasan should apologise for his hurtful remark.”

He added that the fear of empty theatres is keeping distributors away:

“Theatres do not want to run a film that might result in financial loss or become a flashpoint for protests.”

Refund demands and shelving plans

Some distributors who had already paid advances to the producers are now reportedly demanding refunds, citing breach of understanding and inability to recover costs.

With Netflix already holding the OTT rights, industry insiders claim that the streaming giant is considering advancing the film’s digital release due to its underwhelming performance in cinemas.

“The usual OTT window is eight weeks post theatrical release. But in this case, Netflix is likely to release it earlier,” said a trade analyst familiar with the negotiations.

This means even fewer theatre owners will be interested in picking up the film for a short and unprofitable theatrical window.

Political and linguistic overtones

The controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan’s remark about the origin of the Kannada language has reignited long-standing linguistic sensitivities between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Many Kannada organisations viewed the comment as disrespectful and historically inaccurate, and social media campaigns calling for a boycott of Thug Life gained significant traction in the State.

Despite a legal victory, Mr. Haasan has yet to offer a public apology, which remains a key demand from groups like the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and various regional film bodies.

Comparisons with competing films

This week marks the release of big-budget and star-studded films including:

• Kuberaa (starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna Akkineni, and Rashmika Mandanna)

• Sitaare Zameen Par (Aamir Khan’s highly awaited family drama)

These films are expected to dominate screen counts in Karnataka, further reducing any chance for Thug Life to secure a last-minute theatrical release.

Larger implications for industry relations

This controversy highlights the fragile relationship between regional film industries, where a single remark can derail distribution deals, despite clearances from regulatory bodies or courts.

Producers and marketing strategists are now more aware of the potential backlash from politically sensitive comments, especially when releasing films across linguistically diverse Indian states.

Some insiders believe this could lead to more content localisation and cultural vetting before large-scale promotions in politically aware markets like Karnataka.

Will Thug Life be salvaged through OTT?

The only hope now for Thug Life lies in its upcoming OTT release, which could salvage some of the investment. Netflix is yet to confirm the exact date, but early reports suggest a release by the first week of July 2025.

While Kamal Haasan’s star power and Mani Ratnam’s direction may draw niche viewers online, recovering the ₹300 crore budget appears highly unlikely.

Conclusion: A cautionary tale

Thug Life’s journey in Karnataka is a case study in how controversies, poor marketing choices and box office failures can override even the strongest legal protections. Despite a Supreme Court nod, the film may never reach theatres in Karnataka, marking a grim chapter in its theatrical run.

As the industry watches closely, producers and stars alike may need to tread more carefully across linguistic and cultural boundaries, especially in the era of social media outrage and regional activism.

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