When a major star picks the films of their contemporary which they like the most, they tend to be different from what the masses would usually choose. During an interaction about Thug Life with Galatta, Kamal Haasan was asked to pick his favourite Rajinikanth film out of Thalapathi, Baashha, and Mullum Malarum. Pop came the reply: "Mullum Malarum for me." The filmmaker-actor then said that he was supposed to act in Mullum Malarum, which would have meant one more collaboration with Rajinikanth. They have acted together in over a dozen films.

Kamal Haasan humorously commented on the different cinematic approach he has long been having with Rajinikanth. "Between us, we had decided that he should do films such as Baashha and me films like Mullum Malarum."

Kamal Haasan also mentioned his iconic film with Rajinikanth, Apoorva Raagangal, as one of his favourites. "I am the villain in the film, not him. In Apoorva Raagangal, I am the foolish lover who comes in between two lovers."

The Thug Life star went on to add Avargal and Thappu Thalangal to his list of favourite Rajinikanth films.