“Coolie” is not just another movie; it’s a cinematic event that marks the collaboration of two of the biggest forces in Tamil cinema: the legendary Superstar Rajinikanth and the contemporary master of action thrillers, Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film is a masterclass in blending nostalgic fan service with a fresh, modern narrative style, creating a “power-packed mass entertainer” that has been praised by early viewers and is already shattering box office records.
An Ode to Vintage Rajinikanth
The film’s central and most celebrated aspect is the return of Rajinikanth’s vintage swagger. Fans have been eagerly awaiting this, and director Lokesh Kanagaraj delivers in spades. From his intimidating gait and stylized dialogue delivery to his iconic mannerisms and flair, Rajinikanth’s performance is a nostalgic throwback to his 80s and 90s hits like ‘Mullum Malarum‘ and ‘Thee‘. His character, Deva, is a former gold smuggler and “a man leading a quiet life who is forced to step into action.” This premise allows Rajinikanth to showcase a raw, action-packed persona that has been hailed as one of his best performances since ‘Kabali’. The film’s trailer, with its red-suited hero, a bat-swinging action scene, and a distinct “vintage” feel, has already sent fans into a frenzy.
The Lokesh Kanagaraj Touch: Narrative and World-Building
Lokesh Kanagaraj, known for his tightly woven and surprise-filled narratives, brings his A-game to “Coolie.” The director’s storytelling is not just about action but about building a compelling world and a thrilling plot. Deva’s quest to revive his old gang using stolen technology from vintage watches leads to a high-stakes conflict. The film is a gangster drama set in the world of gold smuggling, but Lokesh packs the story with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing. While the director has stated the film is a standalone story separate from his popular LCU (Lokesh Cinematic Universe), there are subtle hints and “Easter eggs” for die-hard fans, sparking intense speculation and adding another layer of excitement. The movie’s “A” certificate from the censor board, a rarity for a Rajinikanth film, is a testament to the film’s intense action sequences and raw, realistic tone.
A Star-Studded Ensemble Cast
“Coolie” is a true pan-Indian spectacle, not just in its release but in its cast. The supporting actors are not mere additions but integral to the story’s strength.
- Nagarjuna as the antagonist, Simon, is a major highlight. His villainous role is described as the “backbone of the story,” providing a formidable and worthy adversary for Rajinikanth. His performance, praised by Lokesh for its “Gen Z-style” of filmmaking, adds a new dimension to the film’s conflict.
- Shruti Haasan delivers a standout performance, with early reviews calling her the “main highlight” of the film. She plays the daughter of Sathyaraj’s character, and her role is central to the film’s emotional core, as she opposes Rajinikanth’s character’s decision to intervene in the conflict.
- Sathyaraj reunites with Rajinikanth after a gap of decades, playing the character of Rajasekar, a close friend to Deva. His character serves as a moral anchor and his predicament is the catalyst for the entire plot.
- Aamir Khan‘s much-anticipated cameo is a “big surprise” that is expected to create a frenzy in theaters.
- Upendra and Soubin Shahir also have important roles, contributing to the star-studded spectacle and drawing in diverse fan bases.
Musical and Technical Prowess
Anirudh Ravichander’s music is the film’s rhythmic heartbeat. The composer, who has a knack for creating memorable mass anthems, delivers a score that amplifies every action sequence and emotional beat. The previously released songs were instant hits, and the background music is expected to be a major strength. Anirudh has even crafted special theme tracks for the main stars, ensuring that each character’s entry and key moments are elevated to a theatrical high. The cinematography by Girish Gangadharan and editing by Philomin Raj are also crucial, creating a visually stunning and fast-paced experience that complements the high-octane action.
Box Office and Legacy
“Coolie” has been a record-breaker even before its official release. It has already amassed over ₹80 crore in worldwide advance bookings, a historic figure for an Indian film. Industry experts are confident that the film will have a gargantuan opening, with first-day collections projected to cross ₹150 crore. The film’s release during the Independence Day long weekend is expected to further boost its box office performance. This movie not only celebrates Rajinikanth’s 50-year journey in cinema but is also set to become a defining film in both his and Lokesh Kanagaraj’s illustrious careers. “Coolie” is a film made for the big screen, a grand, immersive experience that delivers on its promises of mass entertainment, nostalgia, and thrilling action.
