Daijiworld Media Network – Chennai
Chennai, Jun 13: Tamil cinema's multifaceted icon, Kamal Haasan, is currently witnessing a mixed run at the box office — from heights of historic success with Vikram to the stumbling performances of Indian 2 and Thug Life. The legend, long known for his versatility and cinematic intelligence, is navigating an era where content reigns supreme and box office loyalty is increasingly fleeting.
In 2022, Vikram, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, brought Kamal Haasan roaring back into the limelight. A pulsating action thriller with razor-sharp visuals, gripping narrative, and Anirudh’s electrifying background score, the film struck a chord with both young audiences and longtime fans.
Grossing over Rs 247 crore in India and Rs 414.43 crore worldwide, Vikram became the highest-grossing Tamil film of the year and one of the biggest hits in Haasan’s career. It also signaled the creation of a new cinematic universe, positioning Kamal not only as a revered thespian but also as a bankable mass-action hero in a modern avatar.
Indian 2, directed by Shankar, arrived in July 2024 amid sky-high expectations. As a sequel to the 1996 classic, the film brought back the iconic character Senapathy, the aged vigilante freedom fighter. However, despite a promising Rs 25.6 crore opening day, the film faltered after a steady start, wrapping up with a lifetime domestic total of Rs 81.32 crore.
Critics pointed to a sluggish narrative and lack of innovation, and audiences seemed unmoved by the nostalgia. The once-celebrated franchise failed to resonate with today’s fast-paced viewers, proving that legacy alone cannot guarantee success in current times.
Released on June 5, 2025, Thug Life saw Kamal Haasan collaborating with master filmmaker Mani Ratnam and actor Silambarasan in a high-octane gangster drama. Despite a respectable Rs 15.5 crore opening, the film’s momentum crashed within days. By Day 8, the domestic tally stood at Rs 43.37 crore, with collections dipping alarmingly.
Industry experts cite a disjointed screenplay and lack of emotional connect as core issues. Multiplexes began pulling shows while single-screen theatres swiftly shifted focus to newer entrants. In a market increasingly driven by strong word-of-mouth, Thug Life became a casualty of unmet expectations.
Controversy marred Thug Life even before its second weekend. Kamal Haasan’s comments during promotions, implying that Kannada is derived from Tamil, sparked outrage in Karnataka. The backlash led to the film being blocked in theatres across the state, dealing a serious financial blow.
Trade analysts estimate a loss of Rs 6-8 crore in Karnataka alone — a significant dent in South India’s booming film market. While Haasan's statement was later clarified, the damage had already been done.
While Kalki 2898 AD stormed the Indian box office with Rs 646.31 crore in global collections, Kamal Haasan’s role in the sci-fi epic was limited to a brief introduction as Supreme Yaskin, the antagonist. Though his presence adds weight to the franchise, it cannot be classified as a Kamal-led victory. The true test of his influence in Kalki will unfold in the sequel.
Kamal Haasan’s recent filmography offers a nuanced portrait of a star navigating the unpredictable tides of modern cinema. With Vikram, he proved that the right blend of storytelling and style can still spark box office magic. However, Indian 2 and Thug Life served as stark reminders that even icons must adapt to the evolving expectations of a discerning audience.
As the actor gears up for his extended role in Kalki's sequel and other ambitious ventures, fans and analysts alike are watching closely. Will the Ulaganayagan reinvent himself once more, or will nostalgia be his greatest challenge? Only time — and the next box office chart — will tell.