Thuppakki: Difference between revisions

{{Use Indian English|date=October 2021}}

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| runtime        = 170 minutes<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki |url=https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/thuppakki-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0znzuxnjc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220131185739/https://www.bbfc.co.uk/release/thuppakki-q29sbgvjdglvbjpwwc0znzuxnjc |archive-date=13 November 2012 |access-date=31 January 2022 |website=[[British Board of Film Classification]]}}</ref>

| gross          = {{Estimation}} {{INR}}125 [[crore]]<ref name="worldwide gross" />

'''''Thuppakki''''' ({{translation|Gun}}) is a 2012 Indian [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language [[action thriller film]] written and directed by [[AR Murugadoss]]. Produced by [[Kalaipuli S. Thanu|Kalaippuli S. Thanu]] under his studio V Creations, and distributed by [[Gemini Film Circuit]], the film stars [[Vijay (actor)|Vijay]], [[Kajal Aggarwal]] and [[Vidyut Jamwal]], with [[Sathyan (Tamil actor)|Sathyan]], [[Jayaram]], [[Manobala]] and [[Zakir Hussain (actor)|Zakir Hussain]] in supporting roles. It revolves around an [[Defence Intelligence Agency (India)|intelligence officer]] in the [[Indian Army]] on a mission to track down, destroy and deactivate a [[Sleeper agent|sleeper cell]], after witnessing and barely escaping a bomb blast executed by the cell.

The project, which marked the beginning of a collaboration between Vijay and Murugadoss, was reported in July 2011, and the film's title was formally announced on the same year in December. [[Principal photography]] of the film commenced in January 2012 and ended in October 2012. Filming mostly took place in [[Mumbai]], except for two song sequences which were taken in [[Bangkok]] and [[Switzerland]] respectively. The film's music was composed by [[Harris Jayaraj]] with cinematography handled primarily by [[Santosh Sivan]] and editing by [[A. Sreekar Prasad]].

''Thuppakki'' was released on 13 November 2012, [[Diwali]] day. The film went through numerous controversies, including protests from [[Islam]]ic fringe groups, due to the objectionable portrayal of the Islamic community in the film. Nevertheless, it received positive reviews and became a major commercial success, grossing over {{INRConvert|125|c}} within 10 days of its release. A [[List of accolades received by Thuppakki|recipient of various accolades]], the film went on to receive seven [[Filmfare Awards South]] nominations in the Tamil branch, but did not win in any category. However, it won four [[South Indian International Movie Awards|SIIMA Awards]], six [[Vijay Awards]], three [[Edison Awards (India)|Edison Awards]], a [[Chennai Times Film Award]], [[Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards|Ananda Vikatan Cinema Award]], [[CineMAA Awards|CineMAA Award]] each. In 2014, Murugadoss remade the film in [[Hindi]] as ''[[Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty]]'', while [[Baba Yadav]] remade it in [[Bengali language|Bengali]] as ''[[Game (2014 film)|Game]]''.

Jagadish Dhanapal is an [[Defence Intelligence Agency (India)|intelligence officer]] in the [[Indian Army]], who returns to [[Mumbai]] from [[Kashmir]]. On his arrival, his parents and younger sisters force him to see Nisha, his-would-be to bride. After the bride-viewing ceremony, Jagadish makes up excuses to avoid marrying her, which includes commenting about her being old-fashioned. On the contrary, Nisha is a university-level boxer, who is completely modern in her outlook. Jagadish notices her in a boxing match and falls in love with her. Nisha reciprocates after refusing him initially.

One day, Jagadish witnesses the explosion of a bus in which he and his officer-friend Balaji had travelled. He manages to capture the man who laid the bomb, who escapes from the hospital where he was kept under custody. Jagadish captures the bomber again, and also forces the security chief Inbashekaran, who helped the bomber's escape, to commit suicide. Jagadish learns that the bomber is a mere executor, a [[sleeper agent]], whose only role was to plant the bomb. He also discovers that the sleeper cell, which the bomber belongs to, has planned various such attacks in the city in a couple of days.  

Enlisting the help of his fellow army men and Balaji, Jagadish manages to thwart these attacks and kill the sleeper agent leader's brother and eleven other agents, including the previously captured sleeper agent. When the leader of the sleeper cell learns about the role of Jagdish in thwarting the attack, he begins to target the families of the army men, except Jagadish, by kidnapping someone close to them. When Jagadish realises the plan, he substitutes one of the people to be kidnapped, with his younger sister Sanjana.  

Using his pet dog and his sister's ''[[dupatta]]'', he manages to reach the sleeper cell's hideout, rescuing his sister, who was about to be killed after Jagadish's bluff was exposed, and the other victims and eliminating the sleeper agents assembled there. The second-in-command of the sleeper agents is captured and killed by Jagadish. With this attack too having failed, the sleeper cell leader decides to target Jagadish himself. He kills one of Jagadish's friends and asks Jagadish to surrender to him or else there would be more attacks.  

 

Jagadish decides to sacrifice his life and devises a plan with his fellow army men. Jagadish meets the leader in a ship, which has been rigged with a bomb planted by another friend of Jagadish. When he learns about the leader's plan of infiltrating the Indian Army with sleeper agents with the help of a traitor in the Indian Defense&nbsp;– Kameeruddin [[Indian Administrative Service|IAS]], the current Joint Secretary in Defence.

 

Jagadish decides to abandon his suicidal plan. He mocks the leader and compels him to a fight before escaping in a boat, with the leader as a hostage. After the ship explodes, he kills the bewildered leader. At night, Jagadish confronts Kameeruddin and forces him to commit suicide, before returning to Kashmir along with his fellow army men.

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* [[Zakir Hussain (actor)|Zakir Hussain]] as Kameeruddin<ref name="moviefone" />

*[[Meenakshi (actress)|Meenakshi]] as Nisha's friend<ref name="moviefone" />

* [[Sanjana Sarathy|Sanjana]] as Sanjana Dhanapal<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jagannathan |first=Sahithya |date=12 May 2018 |title=No Filter: This mother-daughter duo makes everyone feel really jealous |url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2018/05/12003635/1072169/No-Filter-This-motherdaughter-duo-makes-everyone-feel-.vpf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122117/https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2018/05/12003635/1072169/No-Filter-This-motherdaughter-duo-makes-everyone-feel-.vpf |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=10 February 2020 |website=[[DT Next]]}}</ref>

* Deepthi as Deepthi Dhanapal<ref>{{Cite web |last=B |first=Jayabhuvaneshwari |date=29 May 2021 |title=6 Sisters in Tamil Movies Who Won Our Hearts With Their Unconditional Love! |url=https://jfwonline.com/article/6-sisters-in-tamil-movies-who-won-our-hearts-with-their-unconditional-love/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210608115429/https://jfwonline.com/article/6-sisters-in-tamil-movies-who-won-our-hearts-with-their-unconditional-love/ |archive-date=8 June 2021 |access-date=8 June 2021 |website=JFW}}</ref>

*[[Anupama Kumar]] as Nisha's mother<ref name="moviefone" />

*Gautham Kurup as a sleeper agent<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 September 2014 |title=Negative roles have given me good recognition: Gautham Kurup |work=The Indian Express |agency=IANS |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/negative-roles-have-given-me-good-recognition-gautham-kurup/ |url-status=live |access-date=15 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915160525/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/negative-roles-have-given-me-good-recognition-gautham-kurup/ |archive-date=15 September 2017}}</ref>

*Md Asif as Asif Ali<ref name="moviefone" />

* [[Akshara Gowda]] as Swetha ([[cameo appearance]])<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 July 2020 |title=Actor Akshara Gowda says she regrets doing Vijay's 'Thuppaki' |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/actor-akshara-gowda-says-she-regrets-doing-vijays-thuppaki-128520 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020044913/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/actor-akshara-gowda-says-she-regrets-doing-vijays-thuppaki-128520 |archive-date=20 October 2021 |access-date=20 October 2021 |website=[[The News Minute]]}}</ref>

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In July 2011, it was reported that [[Vijay (actor)|Vijay]] and [[AR Murugadoss]] would collaborate to make an action film, after completing their then-respective ongoing projects, ''[[Velayudham]]'' and ''[[7aum Arivu]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 July 2011 |title=Vijay and AR Murugadoss to work together? |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-and-ar-murugadoss-to-work-together-news-tamil-lhjmQefdfbj.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110912054744/http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-and-ar-murugadoss-to-work-together-news-tamil-lhjmQefdfbj.html |archive-date=12 September 2011 |access-date=29 December 2011 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref> Vijay's father [[S. A. Chandrasekhar]] was initially going to produce the film, but [[Kalaipuli S. Thanu]] eventually took over, producing it under his banner V Creations.<ref name="MSN" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Parameswaran |first=Prathibha |date=19 July 2016 |title=Meet producer Kalaippuli S Thanu, the power behind the 'Kabali' throne |url=https://thereel.scroll.in/812054/meet-producer-kalaippuli-s-thanu-the-power-behind-the-kabali-throne |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170916113253/https://thereel.scroll.in/812054/meet-producer-kalaippuli-s-thanu-the-power-behind-the-kabali-throne |archive-date=16 September 2017 |access-date=16 September 2017 |website=[[Scroll.in]]}}</ref> Although the film was initially titled ''Maalai Nerathu Mazhaithuli'',<ref name="SouthScope" /> in December 2011, the new title was revealed: ''Thuppakki''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 December 2011 |title='Thuppakki', Vijay's next |work=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/kollywood/thuppakkivijay%E2%80%99s-next-903 |url-status=dead |access-date=2 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106084103/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/kollywood/thuppakkivijay%E2%80%99s-next-903 |archive-date=6 January 2012}}</ref> Instead of his regular editor [[Anthony (film editor)|Anthony]] and art director Rajeevan, Murugadoss chose [[A. Sreekar Prasad]] and [[Thota Tharani]] for those positions, respectively. [[Santosh Sivan]] was hired as cinematographer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 March 2012 |title=Will Thuppakki be Vijay's most stylish movie? |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/will-thuppakki-be-vijay-s-most-stylish-movie-news-tamil-mddjbUebdgdsi.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170921063508/http://www.sify.com/movies/will-thuppakki-be-vijay-s-most-stylish-movie-news-tamil-mddjbUebdgdsi.html |archive-date=21 September 2017 |access-date=21 September 2017 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref>

Though [[Kingfisher Calendar]] model [[Angela Jonsson]] took part in a brief photoshoot with Vijay by Sivan in Chennai,<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 September 2011 |title=Vijay shoots with Angela Johnson |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-shoots-with-angela-johnson-news-tamil-ljmkVAdchdj.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111231092208/http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-shoots-with-angela-johnson-news-tamil-ljmkVAdchdj.html |archive-date=31 December 2011 |access-date=29 December 2011 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref> [[Kajal Aggarwal]] was eventually confirmed as the female lead.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kajal confirmed as Vijay's heroine! |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/kajal-confirmed-as-vijay-s-heroine-news-tamil-llrhBIfjiia.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111221084018/http://www.sify.com/movies/kajal-confirmed-as-vijay-s-heroine-news-tamil-llrhBIfjiia.html |archive-date=21 December 2011 |access-date=29 December 2011 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=18 November 2011 |title=Kajal bags the lead in Vijay's next |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-18/hubli/30414394_1_kajal-aggarwal-priyanka-chopra-ar-murugadoss |url-status=dead |access-date=29 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130902041604/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-18/hubli/30414394_1_kajal-aggarwal-priyanka-chopra-ar-murugadoss |archive-date=2 September 2013}}</ref> [[Akshara Gowda]] joined the cast for a single scene as she only wanted to "gain the experience of working with Murugadoss".<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012 |title=Akshara in Thuppakki |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Akshara-in-Thuppakki/articleshow/16979570.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170924010832/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Akshara-in-Thuppakki/articleshow/16979570.cms |archive-date=24 September 2017 |access-date=15 September 2017 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> In early 2012, [[Vidyut Jammwal]], who was simultaneously shooting for ''[[Billa II]]'', said he would play the main antagonist.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 February 2012 |title=Ajith's warm, Vijay's cool: Vidyut Jamwal |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-02-02/news-interviews/31016776_1_ajith-billa-vidyut-jamwal |url-status=dead |access-date=2 February 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714233431/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-02-02/news-interviews/31016776_1_ajith-billa-vidyut-jamwal |archive-date=14 July 2012}}</ref> [[Sathyan (Tamil actor)|Sathyan]] confirmed his participation in the film in January 2012,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Warrier |first=Shobha |date=11 January 2012 |title=I am really looking forward to the release of the film |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-interview-with-sathyan/20120111.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120114001227/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-interview-with-sathyan/20120111.htm |archive-date=14 January 2012 |access-date=14 January 2012 |website=Rediff.com}}</ref> and Malayalam actor [[Jayaram]] confirmed his presence the following month.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Anupama Subramanian |date=16 February 2012 |title=Jayaram back with Vijay's Thuppakki |work=Deccan Chronicle |url=https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/402465_257522554322327_279720947_n.jpg |url-status=dead |access-date=17 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222191236/https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/402465_257522554322327_279720947_n.jpg |archive-date=22 February 2014}}</ref> In April 2012, Murugadoss confirmed that he himself would appear onscreen.<ref>{{Cite news |date=4 April 2012 |title=What Vijay insisted for Thuppaki? |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-04-04/news-interviews/31286859_1_director-ar-murugadoss-vijay-role |url-status=dead |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103135526/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-04-04/news-interviews/31286859_1_director-ar-murugadoss-vijay-role |archive-date=3 January 2013}}</ref> That was eventually revealed to be a cameo in the song "Google Google", where Sivan also cameoed.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 March 2013 |title=Tamil actor Vijay to make a cameo in his next |url=http://www.news18.com/news/india/tamil-actor-vijay-to-make-a-cameo-in-his-next-593999.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915113800/http://www.news18.com/news/india/tamil-actor-vijay-to-make-a-cameo-in-his-next-593999.html |archive-date=15 September 2017 |access-date=15 September 2017 |website=[[News18]]}}</ref> [[Dubai]]-based Malayali [[Orthodontics|orthodontist]] Prasanth Nair was also signed to play a small but important role of a commando, making it his acting debut in Tamil cinema.<ref>{{Cite web |date=24 October 2012 |title=Malayalee doctor debuts in Thuppakki |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/malayalee-doctor-debuts-in-thuppakki-news-tamil-mkykJDfbicd.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019072719/http://www.sify.com/movies/malayalee-doctor-debuts-in-thuppakki-news-tamil-mkykJDfbicd.html |archive-date=19 October 2013 |access-date=2 June 2013 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Jose |first=James |date=13 May 2017 |title=Dr Nair the dentist can throw a few punches in your face |url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sport/dr-nair-the-dentist-can-throw-a-few-punches-in-your-face |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020053733/https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sport/dr-nair-the-dentist-can-throw-a-few-punches-in-your-face |archive-date=20 October 2021 |access-date=20 October 2021 |website=[[Khaleej Times]]}}</ref>

In March, the unit completed a 10-day shoot in [[Bangkok]] for "Google Google", picturised on Vijay and Aggarwal.<ref name="rameshlaus" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Vijay dances with Kajal in Bangkok! |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-dances-with-kajal-in-bangkok-news-tamil-mdqrUpddibg.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120317183247/http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-dances-with-kajal-in-bangkok-news-tamil-mdqrUpddibg.html |archive-date=17 March 2012 |access-date=18 March 2012 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref> In Mumbai, while Vijay was filming a sequence which involved him jumping from a height, he slipped and injured his knee; he was not wearing a knee-pad at the time. Shooting was stalled following the incident and Vijay left to London to undergo treatment.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 June 2012 |title=Ilayathalapathy Vijay injured during Thupakki Shoot |url=http://www.ayngaran.com/frame.php?iframepath=newsdetails.php?newsid=8303 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222135508/http://www.ayngaran.com/frame.php?iframepath=newsdetails.php%3Fnewsid%3D8303 |archive-date=22 February 2014 |access-date=11 June 2012 |website=Ayngaran International}}</ref> One of the film's songs was shot atop of a train, along with 300 dancers constructed by art director Sunil Babu. The dance sequence, choreographed by Shobi, was shot in the [[Mumbai–Pune Expressway]].<ref name="SouthScope" /> Another song, "Vennilave" was shot in Switzerland;<ref name="rameshlaus" /> since Sivan was unable to give dates, [[Natarajan Subramaniam|Natarajan "Natty" Subramaniam]] shot it instead.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sudharshan |title="If it was intended to hurt Ilayathalapathy, I wouldn't have done it"&nbsp;– Natty |url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-cinematographer/natarajan-subramaniam/an-exclusive-interview-with-cinematographer-natarajan-subramanian.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915040929/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-cinematographer/natarajan-subramaniam/an-exclusive-interview-with-cinematographer-natarajan-subramanian.html |archive-date=15 September 2017 |access-date=15 September 2017 |website=Behindwoods}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Suriyaraj |first=P |date=25 January 2017 |title=உண்மையிலே விஜய்க்கு அந்தக் கெட்ட பழக்கம் இருக்கா? |language=ta |trans-title=Does Vijay really have that bad habit? |work=Ananda Vikatan |url=http://www.vikatan.com/cinema/tamil-cinema/78691-is-it-really-actor-vijay-has-that-bad-habit.html |url-status=live |access-date=29 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170829165933/http://www.vikatan.com/cinema/tamil-cinema/78691-is-it-really-actor-vijay-has-that-bad-habit.html |archive-date=29 August 2017}}</ref> The song "Antarctica" was shot at [[DY Patil Stadium]] in Mumbai, with which principal photography [[wrap (filmmaking)|wrapped]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 October 2012 |title=On Location: Vijay's Thuppakki |url=http://www.chakpak.com/content/location-vijays-thuppakki#1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170916182300/http://www.chakpak.com/content/location-vijays-thuppakki#1 |archive-date=16 September 2017 |access-date=16 September 2017 |website=Chakpak}}</ref> The budget of the film was estimated to be {{INRConvert|700|m|year=2012}}.<!--This budget is confirmed by media analyst Sreedhar Pillai, so Vijay fans please don't mess with it!--><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sreedhar Pillai |date=9 November 2012 |title=Why Kollywood's Rs 100 crore club badly needs a hit |url=http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/why-kollywoods-rs-100-crore-club-badly-needs-a-hit-520421.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130110225333/http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/why-kollywoods-rs-100-crore-club-badly-needs-a-hit-520421.html |archive-date=10 January 2013 |access-date=2 January 2013 |website=[[Firstpost]]}}</ref>

== Music ==

[[Harris Jayaraj]] composed the soundtrack of ''Thuppakki'', collaborating with Murugadoss for the third time after ''[[Ghajini (2005 film)|Ghajini]]'' (2005) and ''[[7aum Arivu]]'' (2011).<ref>{{Cite news |date=4 December 2011 |title=Harris Jayaraj in Vijay's next! |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-04/news-interviews/30474147_1_harris-jayaraj-ilayathalapathy-hindi-version |url-status=dead |access-date=4 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006131430/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-04/news-interviews/30474147_1_harris-jayaraj-ilayathalapathy-hindi-version |archive-date=6 October 2013}}</ref> The lyrics were written by [[Na. Muthukumar]], [[Pa. Vijay]], [[Viveka (lyricist)|Viveka]] and [[Madhan Karky]], who had written over 35 [[pallavi]]s for one of the songs, with one being finalised.<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=208954323793743872 |user=madhankarky |title=Wrote 35 pallavi options for my 2nd #Thuppaakki song. We finalized one today. Glad to see the importance given to lyrics these days. |author=Madhan Karky |author-link=Madhan Karky |date=2 June 2012}}</ref> The party number "Google Google", a duet between [[Andrea Jeremiah]] and Vijay,<ref name="TeaserAudioReleased" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=21 August 2012 |title=Thuppakki music by September |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-08-21/news-interviews/33302302_1_thuppakki-vijay-fans-harris-jayaraj |url-status=dead |access-date=25 August 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103103656/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-08-21/news-interviews/33302302_1_thuppakki-vijay-fans-harris-jayaraj |archive-date=3 January 2013}}</ref> marked the latter's return to playback singing after a seven-year sabbatical; his last song was "Vaadi Vaadi" from ''[[Sachein]]'' (2005).<ref>{{Cite news |date=26 November 2016 |title=Vijay has sung incredibly well, says Bairavaa composer Santhosh Narayanan |work=The Indian Express |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/vijay-has-sung-incredibly-well-says-bairavaa-composer-santhosh-narayanan-4396272/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170916140844/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/vijay-has-sung-incredibly-well-says-bairavaa-composer-santhosh-narayanan-4396272/ |archive-date=16 September 2017}}</ref> Though Harris Jayaraj had announced in August that ''Thuppakki''{{'}}s audio launch would take place in September,<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=237832269077827584 |user=Jharrisjayaraj |title=Hi guys... Thuppakki will be available in stores by mid of next month with 6 Tracks and theme music. |author=Harris Jayaraj |author-link=Harris Jayaraj |date=21 August 2012}}</ref> the audio was eventually released on 10 October 2012.<ref name="TeaserAudioReleased" />

''Thuppakki'' was earlier scheduled to be released on 9 November 2012, receiving [[U/A certificate]]. However after minor cuts from the [[Central Board of Film Certification]] the film received a [[U certificate (India)|'U' certificate]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki on Nov 9th with U certificate! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-on-Nov-9th-with-U-certificate/articleshow/17097586.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122105/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-on-Nov-9th-with-U-certificate/articleshow/17097586.cms |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The makers opted for a traditional Friday release,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki set to hit screens on Nov 9&nbsp;– Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-set-to-hit-screens-on-Nov-9/articleshow/16750229.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122124/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-set-to-hit-screens-on-Nov-9/articleshow/16750229.cms |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> since the date appears four days ahead of [[Diwali]], which falls on 13 November, a Tuesday.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Vijay's 'Thuppakki' confirmed for Diwali |url=https://www.sify.com/movies/vijays-thuppakki-confirmed-for-diwali-news-tamil-mjfr0Mcihfdsi.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022105733/https://www.sify.com/movies/vijays-thuppakki-confirmed-for-diwali-news-tamil-mjfr0Mcihfdsi.html |archive-date=22 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref> However, the makers reconsidered their decision and pushed the release coinciding towards the festival.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 November 2012 |title='Thuppakki' release postponed to November 13 |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/thuppakki-release-postponed-to-november-13-520615.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024162800/https://www.news18.com/news/india/thuppakki-release-postponed-to-november-13-520615.html |archive-date=24 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=News18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki pushed to Nov 13th release&nbsp;– Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-pushed-to-Nov-13th-release/articleshow/17112522.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122106/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-pushed-to-Nov-13th-release/articleshow/17112522.cms |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> ''Thuppakki'' released along with [[Silambarasan]]'s ''[[Podaa Podi]]'' and [[Shah Rukh Khan]]'s ''[[Jab Tak Hai Jaan]]''.<ref name="DIWALI RELEASE" /> The film released in more than 1500 screens, becoming the widest release for a Vijay film at that time.<ref>{{Cite news |date=10 November 2012 |title='Thuppakki' assures right mix like Rajini films |work=[[The Times of India]] |agency=Times News Network |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-10/news-interviews/35033360_1_deepavali-thupakki-r-murugadoss |url-status=dead |access-date=12 November 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103190005/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-10/news-interviews/35033360_1_deepavali-thupakki-r-murugadoss |archive-date=3 January 2013}}</ref>

Post release, Islamic fringe groups protested against the film and its makers, claiming that it portrayed Muslims as terrorists and traitors.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 February 2013 |title=Protest politics&nbsp;– Indian Express |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/protest-politics/1068824/0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122054/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/protest-politics/1068824/0 |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=archive.indianexpress.com}}</ref> Some of the activists gathered near Vijay's residence at [[Neelankarai]] on 14 November 2012, a day after its release, and raised slogans against him and the film in Arabic and Urdu.<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 November 2012 |title=Thuppakki triggers ire of Muslim outfit |work=[[The New Indian Express]] |url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/article1339813.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117110534/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/article1339813.ece |archive-date=17 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki triggers ire of Muslim outfit |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2012/nov/15/thuppakki-triggers-ire-of-muslim-outfit-420872.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023074936/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2012/nov/15/thuppakki-triggers-ire-of-muslim-outfit-420872.html |archive-date=23 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref> Later, Murugadoss, S. Thanu and S. A. Chandrasekhar later apologised openly to representatives of 23 different Muslim outfits, and agreed to delete the scenes to which objections were raised.<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 November 2012 |title=Team cleans 'Thuppakki' barrel, offers apology to buy peace |work=[[The New Indian Express]] |url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/article1341164.ece |url-status=live |access-date=2 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121227121734/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/article1341164.ece |archive-date=27 December 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=16 November 2012 |title=Vijay's Thuppaki to go under knife |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/vijays-thuppaki-to-go-under-knife/article4099119.ece |url-status=live |access-date=18 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121118032626/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/vijays-thuppaki-to-go-under-knife/article4099119.ece |archive-date=18 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=29 November 2012 |title=Row over 'Thuppakki' ends after Jaya's intervention |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/295124/row-over-thuppakki-ends-jayas.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022194449/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/295124/row-over-thuppakki-ends-jayas.html |archive-date=22 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[Deccan Herald]]}}</ref>

=== Distribution ===

[[Gemini Film Circuit]] distributed the original Tamil version.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 October 2012 |title=Diwali 2012 booking starts |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/diwali-2012-booking-starts-news-tamil-mkrumUbcaefsi.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606065723/http://www.sify.com/movies/diwali-2012-booking-starts-news-tamil-mkrumUbcaefsi.html |archive-date=6 June 2018 |access-date=6 June 2018 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref> Several distributors including Bellamkonda Suresh, Geetha Films, Suresh Films and SVR Media competed for the Telugu dubbing rights, with SVR eventually purchasing the rights for {{INR}}15&nbsp;crore.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kavirayani |first=Suresh |date=16 November 2012 |title=SVR media bags Thuppakki Telugu rights |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-08-24/news-interviews/33365536_1_telugu-rights-theatrical-distribution-rights-telugu-version |url-status=dead |access-date=7 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019161615/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-08-24/news-interviews/33365536_1_telugu-rights-theatrical-distribution-rights-telugu-version |archive-date=19 October 2013}}</ref> ATMUS Entertainment distributed the film in North America,<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 October 2012 |title=ATMUS Entertainment bags 'Thuppakki's USA rights |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/atmus-entertainment-bags-thuppakkis-usa-rights-518437.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606064910/https://www.news18.com/news/india/atmus-entertainment-bags-thuppakkis-usa-rights-518437.html |archive-date=6 June 2018 |access-date=6 June 2018 |website=[[News18]]}}</ref> and BR Films International did so in France.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki&nbsp;– Le Pistolet |url=http://www.allocine.fr/film/fichefilm_gen_cfilm=214535.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606065438/http://www.allocine.fr/film/fichefilm_gen_cfilm=214535.html |archive-date=6 June 2018 |access-date=6 June 2018 |website=[[AlloCiné]] |language=fr}}</ref>

=== Marketing ===

''Thuppakki''{{'}}s first look poster was leaked on 30 April 2012, a day prior to its scheduled release.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 April 2012 |title=Thupakki first look leaked on the net |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/thupakki-first-look-leaked-on-the-net-news-tamil-me4pMLiedge.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140311154626/http://www.sify.com/movies/thupakki-first-look-leaked-on-the-net-news-tamil-me4pMLiedge.html |archive-date=11 March 2014 |access-date=6 January 2014 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref> The poster, that depicted Vijay holding a cigar in his mouth, was criticised by social activists for violating the [[Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act|Indian Tobacco Act]], which prohibits advertising tobacco products. Murugadoss explained that it was only for promotional purposes and added that the film had no such scenes, claiming that even a small sequence featuring Vijay smoking had been deleted from the film.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ramanujam |first=Srinivasa |date=7 May 2012 |title=Vijay's smoking poster sparks controversy |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-07/news-interviews/31599045_1_smoking-scene-anti-smoking-campaign-smoking-in-public-places |url-status=dead |access-date=9 May 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120701122916/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-07/news-interviews/31599045_1_smoking-scene-anti-smoking-campaign-smoking-in-public-places |archive-date=1 July 2012}}</ref>

In October 2012, another poster, which depicted a police-uniform clad Vijay carrying Aggarwal on his hands, was believed to have been lifted from a poster of ''[[An Officer and a Gentleman]]'' (1982). Murugadoss claimed that ''Thuppakki'' did not have an army backdrop like ''An Officer and a Gentleman'', but was set in Mumbai instead, going on to assert that everything in his film was original.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 November 2012 |title='Thuppakki' is not a Hollywood copy: Director AR Murugadoss |url=http://www.news18.com/news/india/thuppakki-is-not-a-hollywood-copy-director-ar-murugadoss-521430.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915161308/http://www.news18.com/news/india/thuppakki-is-not-a-hollywood-copy-director-ar-murugadoss-521430.html |archive-date=15 September 2017 |access-date=15 September 2017 |website=[[News18]]}}</ref> He, however, admitted to having used the poster of ''An Officer and a Gentleman'', and told ''[[The Hindu]]'', "Sometimes, you admire something so much that sub-consciously it becomes a part of your work".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Manigandan |first=K. R. |date=27 October 2012 |title=What triggered Thuppakki? |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/what-triggered-thuppakki/article4037956.ece |url-status=live |access-date=17 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170917050442/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/what-triggered-thuppakki/article4037956.ece |archive-date=17 September 2017}}</ref>

The makers initially announced that the film's first trailer would be released on 22 June 2012, during Vijay's birthday.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 June 2012 |title=Vijay Thuppaki teaser ready |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-07/news-interviews/32100427_1_teaser-vijay-fans-billa |url-status=dead |access-date=7 June 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103084240/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-07/news-interviews/32100427_1_teaser-vijay-fans-billa |archive-date=3 January 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=19 June 2012 |title=Vijay's Thuppakki teaser release postponed |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/thuppakki-teaser-release-postponed-106196-2012-06-19 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026044744/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/thuppakki-teaser-release-postponed-106196-2012-06-19 |archive-date=26 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref> However, the teaser release was postponed to 1 July,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki Teaser Not For Vijay's Birthday? |url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/jun-12-03/thuppakki-vijay-19-06-12.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023115237/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/jun-12-03/thuppakki-vijay-19-06-12.html |archive-date=23 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=Behindwoods}}</ref> to avoid clashing with the theatrical release of ''[[Saguni]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=19 June 2012 |title=Vijays Thuppakki teaser release postponed |work=[[India Today]] |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/thuppakki-teaser-release-postponed/1/201356.html |access-date=12 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121119064618/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/thuppakki-teaser-release-postponed/1/201356.html |archive-date=19 November 2012}}</ref> It was further delayed after a lawsuit was filed against the makers, by filmmaker Ravi Devan, who claimed that the title bore a similarity to his film ''Kallathuppakki''. This suit slowed the film's promotional activities.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 June 2012 |title=Vijay-starrer 'Thuppakki' lands in trouble over title |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Vijay-starrer-Thuppakki-lands-in-trouble-over-title/articleshow/14515902.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029061309/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Vijay-starrer-Thuppakki-lands-in-trouble-over-title/articleshow/14515902.cms |archive-date=29 October 2021 |access-date=21 October 2021 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Title trouble for Kollywood flicks |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Title-trouble-for-Kollywood-flicks/articleshow/15532768.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122113/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Title-trouble-for-Kollywood-flicks/articleshow/15532768.cms |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki and Kalla Thuppakki to battle it out |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-and-Kalla-Thuppakki-to-battle-it-out/articleshow/16795682.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028105934/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Thuppakki-and-Kalla-Thuppakki-to-battle-it-out/articleshow/16795682.cms |archive-date=28 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> After Ravi Devan withdrew his case in early October,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Title controversy over Thuppakki is over |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Title-controversy-over-Thuppakki-is-over/articleshow/16709853.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202122110/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Title-controversy-over-Thuppakki-is-over/articleshow/16709853.cms |archive-date=2 December 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> the first trailer was released in the same month on 10 October 2012,<ref name="TeaserAudioReleased" /> which was premiered along with ''[[Maattrraan]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 October 2012 |title='Thuppakki' Trailer: Surya, Vijay to Share Screen Space |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/039thuppakki039-trailer-surya-vijay-to-share-screen-space-392603 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171112062941/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/039thuppakki039-trailer-surya-vijay-to-share-screen-space-392603 |archive-date=12 November 2017 |access-date=12 November 2017 |website=[[International Business Times]]}}</ref> The second trailer of the film was released on 26 October.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 October 2012 |title='Thuppakki' new trailer: Watch Vijay and Kajal Aggarwal |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/thuppakki-new-trailer-watch-vijay-and-kajal-aggarwal-518762.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023035207/https://www.news18.com/news/india/thuppakki-new-trailer-watch-vijay-and-kajal-aggarwal-518762.html |archive-date=23 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[News18]]}}</ref>

=== Home media ===

International home media were marketed by Lotus Fivestar and Seyons TSK.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Description&nbsp;– Thuppakki Tamil DVD |url=http://www.njmtv.com/thuppakkitamildvd_thuppakki-tamil-dvd_vijay-kajal-aggarwal-jayaram-vidyut-jamwal-sathyan-9293.html#link9293 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150130192514/http://www.njmtv.com/thuppakkitamildvd_thuppakki-tamil-dvd_vijay-kajal-aggarwal-jayaram-vidyut-jamwal-sathyan-9293.html |archive-date=30 January 2015 |access-date=30 January 2015 |website=Movie Time Video}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Thuppakki Original Tamil DVD with English Subtitles, DTS Surround Sound Fully Boxed and Sealed |url=https://www.amazon.com/Thuppakki-Original-English-Subtitles-Surround/dp/B00DDU9BGI |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150130162459/http://www.amazon.com/Thuppakki-Original-English-Subtitles-Surround/dp/B00DDU9BGI |archive-date=30 January 2015 |access-date=30 January 2015 |website=[[Amazon (company)|Amazon]]}}</ref> Initially, [[Jaya TV]], acquired the film's satellite rights, but later sold to [[Star Vijay]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Upadhyaya |first=Prakash |date=30 March 2016 |title=Vijay TV in race to bag satellite rights of Ilayathalapathy's 'Theri' |url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/vijay-tv-race-bag-satellite-rights-ilayathalapathys-theri-672633 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023071946/https://www.ibtimes.co.in/vijay-tv-race-bag-satellite-rights-ilayathalapathys-theri-672633 |archive-date=23 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=[[International Business Times]]}}</ref>

''Thuppakki'' received mostly positive reviews from critics.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Pillai |first=Sreedhar |date=16 November 2012 |title=Rajini said Thuppakki was brilliant: director AR Murugadoss |work=Firstpost |url=http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/rajini-said-thuppakki-was-brilliant-director-ar-murugadoss-525968.html |url-status=live |access-date=15 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915162129/http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/rajini-said-thuppakki-was-brilliant-director-ar-murugadoss-525968.html |archive-date=15 September 2017}}</ref> L Romal M Singh of ''[[Daily News and Analysis]]'' stated that the film "is different. The difference is visible in every shot, every dialogue spoken and the amazing attention to detail. What stands out most in this incredibly entertaining film is that Tamil films have finally come of age&nbsp;– in so many interesting ways".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Review: Thuppaki (Tamil) is refreshing, indeed! |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_review-thuppaki-tamil-is-refreshing-indeed_1765709 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121119110943/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_review-thuppaki-tamil-is-refreshing-indeed_1765709 |archive-date=19 November 2012 |access-date=17 November 2012 |website=DNA India}}</ref>''. [[Deccan Chronicle]]'' rated it 3.5 out of 5 and cited: "''Thuppaki'' has come out as an action thriller that depends on mind games and smart plans rather than bloody fights. This is Murugados's film in its true sense and Vijay adds immense value to it by his performance".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Team Chakpak |date=16 November 2012 |title=Review: Vijay's Thuppaki |work=Deccan Chronicle |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/121114/entertainment-movie-reviews/article/review-vijays-thuppaki |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130106140436/http://deccanchronicle.com/121114/entertainment-movie-reviews/article/review-vijays-thuppaki |archive-date=6 January 2013}}</ref> ''[[News18]]'' named it a "well written Tamil film that engages the audience" and added that it had "the energy of Vijay and intellect of AR Murugadoss".<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 November 2012 |title='Thuppakki' Review: This well written Tamil film engages the audience |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/thuppakki-review-this-well-written-tamil-film-engages-the-audience/305505-47-92.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117100905/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/thuppakki-review-this-well-written-tamil-film-engages-the-audience/305505-47-92.html |archive-date=17 November 2012 |access-date=16 October 2020 |website=CNN IBN}}</ref> Manoj Kumar of ''[[International Business Times]]'' wrote: "Director AR Murugadoss makes sure that he does not regress with any of his films. He frequently comes out with a different plot and narration style, and ''Thuppaki'' is a brilliant example of this".<ref name="IBTReview" />

J Hurtado of ''[[Screen Anarchy]]'' called the cinematography "astonishingly good" and added that, "Murugadoss and Vijay have never worked on a better-looking movie", but called the film "an enjoyable, though largely forgettable film".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hurtado |first=J. |date=13 November 2012 |title=Review: THUPPAKKI Is A Beautifully-Constructed Hot Mess |url=http://screenanarchy.com/2012/11/review-thuppakki-is-a-beautifully-constructed-hot-mess.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170921064232/http://screenanarchy.com/2012/11/review-thuppakki-is-a-beautifully-constructed-hot-mess.html |archive-date=21 September 2017 |access-date=21 September 2017 |website=[[Screen Anarchy]]}}</ref> N. Venkateshwaran of ''[[The Times of India]]'' said, "''Thuppakki'' will definitely be picked up by a big Bollywood star for a remake. For, the gun was bang on target".<ref>{{Cite news |last=N Venkateswaran |title=Thuppakki |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-15/movie-reviews/35133981_1_movie-review-thuppakki-murugadoss |url-status=dead |access-date=18 March 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130411033839/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-15/movie-reviews/35133981_1_movie-review-thuppakki-murugadoss |archive-date=11 April 2013}}</ref> In contrast, Vivek Ramz from [[in.com]] rated it 3 out of 5 and said that it "doesn't meet the huge expectations it had created for itself", calling it "another regular commercial film which entertains in bits and pieces".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ramz |first=Vivek |date=14 November 2012 |title=Thuppakki Review&nbsp;– Thuppakki is a run-of-the-mill entertainer! |url=http://www.in.com/news/entertainment/tamil-review-thuppakki-is-a-runofthemill-entertainer-50139590-in-1.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117102746/http://www.in.com/news/entertainment/tamil-review-thuppakki-is-a-runofthemill-entertainer-50139590-in-1.html |archive-date=17 November 2012 |access-date=17 November 2012 |website=[[in.com]]}}</ref> Pavithra Srinivasan of [[Rediff.com|Rediff]] rated the film 2.5 out of 5, saying "Vijay fans will find plenty to rejoice in this subdued avatar of their star, but audiences who seek intelligence in their movies will find it rather dull".<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 November 2012 |title=Review: Thuppaki is dull |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-thuppaki-is-dull/20121113.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121116010838/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-thuppaki-is-dull/20121113.htm |archive-date=16 November 2012 |website=Rediff.com}}</ref> ''[[Ananda Vikatan]]'' rated the film 44 out of 100.<ref>{{Cite web |last=சார்லஸ் |first=தேவன் |date=22 June 2021 |title=பீஸ்ட் : 'நாளைய தீர்ப்பு' டு 'மாஸ்டர்'... விஜய்க்கு விகடனின் மார்க்கும், விமர்சனமும் என்ன? #Beast |url=https://cinema.vikatan.com/tamil-cinema/how-vijay-movies-scored-in-vikatan-reviews |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008100344/https://cinema.vikatan.com/amp/story/tamil-cinema/how-vijay-movies-scored-in-vikatan-reviews |archive-date=8 October 2021 |access-date=7 December 2021 |website=[[Ananda Vikatan]] |language=ta}}</ref>

=== Accolades ===

{{Main|List of accolades received by Thuppakki}}At the [[60th Filmfare Awards South]], ''Thuppakki'' was nominated for seven categories including [[Filmfare Award for Best Film&nbsp;– Tamil|Best Film]], [[Filmfare Award for Best Director&nbsp;– Tamil|Best Director]] (Murugadoss) and [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Tamil|Best Actor]] (Vijay), but did not win in any category.<ref>{{Cite web |title=60th Idea Filmfare Awards 2013 (South) Nominations |url=http://www.filmfare.com/features/60th-idea-filmfare-awards-2013-south-nominations-3603-4.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170120084209/http://www.filmfare.com/features/60th-idea-filmfare-awards-2013-south-nominations-3603-4.html |archive-date=20 January 2017 |access-date=4 June 2014 |publisher=[[Filmfare Awards South]]}}</ref> However, the film won four of ten nominations at the [[2nd South Indian International Movie Awards]]: Best Actress&nbsp;– Critics for Aggarwal, Best Actor in a Negative Role for Jammwal, Best Music Director for Harris Jayaraj and Best Fight Choreographer for Kecha.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 August 2013 |title=SIIMA 2013: Vijay's 'Thuppakki' Gets 10 Nominations; Pawan's 'Gabbar Singh' Leads Telugu Category |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/siima-2013-vijay039s-039thuppakki039-gets-10-nominations-pawan039s-039gabbar-singh039-leads-telugu-category-501714 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207182924/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/siima-2013-vijay039s-039thuppakki039-gets-10-nominations-pawan039s-039gabbar-singh039-leads-telugu-category-501714 |archive-date=7 February 2015 |access-date=5 June 2014 |website=International Business Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=15 September 2013 |title=SIIMA 2013 Winners List: Dhanush, Pawan Kalyan, Mohanlal, Shivarajkumar Bag Awards |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/siima-2013-winners-list-dhanush-pawan-kalyan-mohanlal-shivarajkumar-bag-awards-506092 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819082302/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/siima-2013-winners-list-dhanush-pawan-kalyan-mohanlal-shivarajkumar-bag-awards-506092 |archive-date=19 August 2014 |access-date=26 June 2014 |website=International Business Times}}</ref> The film as nominated at sixteen categories during the [[7th Vijay Awards]] and won six awards, the highest in this ceremony.<ref>{{Cite episode |title=7th Vijay Awards |series=Vijay Awards |network=[[Star Vijay]] |date=11 May 2013 |location=[[Chennai]]}}</ref> The awards were mostly from the favourite awards branch, which were: [[Vijay Award for Favourite Film|Favourite Film]], [[Vijay Award for Favourite Director|Favourite Director]] (Murugadoss), [[Vijay Award for Favourite Hero|Favourite Hero]] (Vijay), [[Vijay Award for Favourite Heroine|Favourite Heroine]] (Aggarwal) and [[Vijay Award for Favourite Song|Favourite Song]] (Google Google);<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 May 2013 |title=Thuppakki sweeps Vijay Awards! |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/tamil/news-interviews/Thuppakki-sweeps-Vijay-Awards/articleshow/20026331.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513173827/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/tamil/news-interviews/Thuppakki-sweeps-Vijay-Awards/articleshow/20026331.cms |archive-date=13 May 2013 |access-date=26 June 2014 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> Vijay further received an [[Vijay Award for Entertainer of the Year|Entertainer of the Year]] award also for his work in ''Nanban''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 May 2013 |title=Stars, big and small |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/stars-big-and-small/article4714588.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140307073045/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/stars-big-and-small/article4714588.ece |archive-date=7 March 2014 |access-date=26 June 2014 |website=The Hindu}}</ref> In addition, the film won an [[Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards|Ananda Vikatan Cinema Award]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 January 2013 |title=விகடன் விருதுகள் 2012 |trans-title=Vikatan Awards 2012 |url=http://www.vikatan.com/anandavikatan/2013-jan-16/exclusive/28485.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705053627/http://www.vikatan.com/anandavikatan/2013-jan-16/exclusive/28485.html |archive-date=5 July 2017 |access-date=5 July 2017 |website=[[Ananda Vikatan]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Winners List 2012 |url=http://www.vikatan.com/cinema/vikatanawards//winners-list-2012.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705053936/http://www.vikatan.com/cinema/vikatanawards//winners-list-2012.html |archive-date=5 July 2017 |access-date=5 July 2017 |website=Ananda Vikatan}}</ref> one [[CineMAA Awards|CineMAA Award]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 June 2013 |title=CineMAA Awards 2013 Winners |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/today/maaawards2013announced.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115155228/http://www.idlebrain.com/news/today/maaawards2013announced.html |archive-date=15 November 2017 |access-date=15 November 2017 |website=[[Idlebrain.com]]}}</ref> one [[Chennai Times]] Film Award<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 July 2013 |title=Chennai Times Film Awards 2012 nominations |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news-interviews/Chennai-Times-Film-Awards-2012-nominations/articleshow/20930588.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170925034455/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news-interviews/Chennai-Times-Film-Awards-2012-nominations/articleshow/20930588.cms |archive-date=25 September 2017 |access-date=27 April 2014 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=4 November 2013 |title=The Chennai Times Film Awards 2012 goes to... |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news-interviews/The-Chennai-Times-Film-Awards-2012-goes-to--/articleshow/25170374.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140423223916/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news-interviews/The-Chennai-Times-Film-Awards-2012-goes-to--/articleshow/25170374.cms |archive-date=23 April 2014 |access-date=27 April 2014 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> and three [[Edison Awards (India)|Edison Awards]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Edison Awards 2013&nbsp;– Winners / Jury Award Announcement |url=http://araciyal.com/edison/vote.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130217121352/http://araciyal.com/edison/vote.html |archive-date=17 February 2013 |access-date=9 March 2013 |publisher=[[Edison Awards (India)|Edison Awards]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=6th Edition Edison Award gets bigger and grander |url=http://movies.sulekha.com/tamil-movie-thuppaki-news-6th-edition-edison-award-gets-bigger-and-grander |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170917051101/http://movies.sulekha.com/tamil-movie-thuppaki-news-6th-edition-edison-award-gets-bigger-and-grander |archive-date=17 September 2017 |access-date=16 July 2013 |website=Sulekha}}</ref>

Murugadoss remade the film in [[Hindi]] as ''[[Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty]]'' in 2014,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adarsh |first=Taran |author-link=Taran Adarsh |date=4 June 2014 |title=Holiday&nbsp;– A Soldier Is Never Off Duty |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/597508 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140607003819/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/597508 |archive-date=7 June 2014 |access-date=6 June 2014 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref> and [[Baba Yadav]] remade it in [[Bengali language|Bengali]] as [[Game (2014 film)|''Game'']] the same year.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chatterjee |first=Arindam |date=29 May 2014 |title=Man on a mission |work=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1140529/jsp/t2/story_18391502.jsp |access-date=9 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109045812/https://www.telegraphindia.com/1140529/jsp/t2/story_18391502.jsp |archive-date=9 November 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Buzarbaruah |first=Upam |date=31 May 2014 |title=Game |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bengali/movie-reviews/Game/movie-review/35851034.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140608023555/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bengali/movie-reviews/Game/movie-review/35851034.cms |archive-date=8 June 2014 |access-date=6 June 2014 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> Despite the Hindi remake, the film was dubbed and released in the same language as ''Indian Soldier: Never On Holiday'' by Goldmines Telefilms in 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 December 2020 |title='Thuppakki' to 'Master': Five times when Vijay's Hindi dub got a different title |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thuppakki-to-master-five-times-when-vijays-hindi-dub-got-a-different-title/photostory/79955480.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926103142/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thuppakki-to-master-five-times-when-vijays-hindi-dub-got-a-different-title/photostory/79955480.cms |archive-date=26 September 2021 |access-date=26 September 2021 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>

The success of ''Thuppakki'' led to more collaborations between Murugadoss and Vijay, namely ''[[Kaththi]]'' (2014) and ''[[Sarkar (2018 film)|Sarkar]]'' (2018).<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 March 2020 |title=Vijay and Murugadoss to team up for the fourth time |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijay-and-murugadoss-to-team-up-for-the-fourth-time-1655911-2020-03-16 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020054944/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijay-and-murugadoss-to-team-up-for-the-fourth-time-1655911-2020-03-16 |archive-date=20 October 2021 |access-date=20 October 2021 |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref> The dialogue "I am waiting", spoken by Jagadish (Vijay) just before the interval, gained popularity and has since been used in the pre-interval scenes of other South Indian films as well. These include ''Kaththi'',<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 October 2018 |title=AR Murugadoss about I am waiting dialogue in Sarkar |url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/ar-murugadoss-about-i-am-waiting-dialogue-in-sarkar.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026051009/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/ar-murugadoss-about-i-am-waiting-dialogue-in-sarkar.html |archive-date=26 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=Behindwoods}}</ref> ''[[Theri (film)|Theri]]'' (2016),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Theri |type=motion picture |language=ta |publisher=V Creations |year=2016 |time=0:23}}</ref> ''[[Velainu Vandhutta Vellaikaaran]]'' (2016),<ref>{{Cite news |last=Rangan |first=Baradwaj |author-link=Baradwaj Rangan |date=3 June 2016 |title=Velainnu Vandhutta Vellakaran: The grin reaper |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/Velainnu-Vandhutta-Vellakaran-The-grin-reaper/article14382452.ece |url-status=live |access-date=22 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201019060019/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/Velainnu-Vandhutta-Vellakaran-The-grin-reaper/article14382452.ece |archive-date=19 October 2020}}</ref> ''[[Pokkiri Simon]]'' (2017),<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 September 2017 |title='Pokkiri Simon' Review: A pale tribute to a star that goes nowhere |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/pokkiri-simon-review-pale-tribute-star-goes-nowhere-68835 |access-date=19 February 2022 |website=[[The News Minute]]}}</ref> ''[[Tamizh Padam 2]]'' (2018),<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 July 2018 |title=Tamizh Padam 2 (aka) Tamil Padam 2 review |url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/tamizh-padam-2/tamizh-padam-2-review.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023170149/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/tamizh-padam-2/tamizh-padam-2-review.html |archive-date=23 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |website=Behindwoods}}</ref> ''Sarkar''<ref>{{Cite news |last=Srinivasan |first=Sudhir |date=6 November 2018 |title=Sarkar review: Vijay propaganda hinders this film from realising its potential |work=[[Cinema Express]] |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/reviews/tamil/2018/nov/06/sarkar-review-vijay-propaganda-hinders-this-film-from-realising-its-potential-8650.html |url-status=live |access-date=9 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811125230/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/reviews/tamil/2018/nov/06/sarkar-review-vijay-propaganda-hinders-this-film-from-realising-its-potential-8650.html |archive-date=11 August 2020}}</ref> and ''[[Master (2021 film)|Master]]'' (2021).<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 January 2021 |title='Master' movie review: Many strengths, yet, not remarkable |work=[[The New Indian Express]] |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2021/jan/14/master-movie-review-many-strengths-yet-not-remarkable-2249803.html |url-status=live |access-date=17 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210116110715/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2021/jan/14/master-movie-review-many-strengths-yet-not-remarkable-2249803.html |archive-date=16 January 2021}}</ref>

<ref name="TeaserAudioReleased">{{Cite web |date=10 October 2012 |title=Thuppakki teaser and audio released |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/thuppakki-teaser-and-audio-released-news-tamil-mkkn83jejdj.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121226014656/http://www.sify.com/movies/thuppakki-teaser-and-audio-released-news-tamil-mkkn83jejdj.html |archive-date=26 December 2012 |access-date=9 March 2013 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref>

<ref name="worldwide gross">{{Cite web |last=Upadhyaya |first=Prakash |date=13 November 2017 |title=Mersal box office collection: Vijay crowned the king of Rs 100 crore club; consistent performer than Rajinikanth, Ajith |url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/mersal-box-office-collection-vijay-crowned-king-rs-100-crore-club-consistent-performer-749164 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180606073646/https://www.ibtimes.co.in/mersal-box-office-collection-vijay-crowned-king-rs-100-crore-club-consistent-performer-749164 |archive-date=6 June 2018 |access-date=6 June 2018 |website=International Business Times |location=India}}</ref>

[[Category:Films shot in Switzerland]]