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Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, arrives as one of the most awaited Tamil films of the year. Starring the legendary Rajinikanth alongside Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, and a cameo by Aamir Khan, the film hit theatres worldwide on August 14, 2025, perfectly timed for the Independence Day weekend. Riding high on pre-release buzz, it promised to be a mass entertainer of epic proportions.

PLOT SYNOPSIS

In this high-voltage action thriller, Rajinikanth plays Deva, a former coolie who is pulled back into a dangerous world while investigating the suspicious death of a close friend. His search leads him into the heart of a powerful crime syndicate, unveiling a maze of betrayals, hidden agendas, and personal vendettas. The film unfolds through multiple timelines, balancing political intrigue, emotional flashbacks, and intense confrontations.

PERFORMANCES

Rajinikanth is the undeniable heart of Coolie. His screen presence, style, and charisma remain unmatched, breathing life into every scene he appears in. His performance in emotionally heavy moments is particularly compelling, proving once again why he continues to be a force in Indian cinema.

Nagarjuna delivers a sharp and controlled performance as the antagonist, exuding a calm menace that effectively counters Rajini’s energy. Soubin Shahir adds a surprising emotional depth in his brief yet impactful role. Shruti Haasan shines in her limited screen time, leaving a lasting impression, while Upendra and Sathyaraj bring solid support, though their characters could have been explored more fully. Aamir Khan’s cameo is a treat for the audience, though it feels underutilized.

DIRECTION & SCREENPLAY

Lokesh Kanagaraj’s vision is ambitious, blending a stylized action universe with a story rooted in nostalgia and fan service. The first 30 minutes set a striking tone with strong world-building and high-energy mass moments. However, the screenplay is often overcrowded, juggling too many subplots and character arcs, which affects the pacing. The first half is weighed down by exposition, delaying the central conflict.

The second half gains momentum, delivering the kind of high-energy spectacle fans expect from a Rajinikanth film. Kanagaraj excels at crafting whistle-worthy sequences, though at times, the narrative sacrifices emotional weight for grand set pieces.

TECHNICAL MERITS

Visually, Coolie is a treat. The production design and color palette bring a cinematic polish to every frame. Anbariv’s action choreography is dynamic, creating fight scenes that are both gritty and balletic.

Anirudh Ravichander’s music and background score elevate the film’s mood, especially in high-tension and celebratory moments. Songs like “Monica” and “Powerhouse” pump up the energy and enhance the theatrical experience. Editing could have been sharper in the first half, but the second half benefits from tighter cuts and better flow.

AUDIENCE & CRITICAL RESPONSE

Fans have embraced Coolie as a celebration of Rajinikanth’s stardom, with theatres witnessing packed shows, cheering crowds, and festival-like atmospheres. The film’s advance bookings broke records, including massive overseas pre-sales.

Critics, however, are divided. Many praise Rajinikanth’s performance, Anirudh’s score, and the film’s technical strengths, but point out its uneven pacing, overstuffed screenplay, and lack of cohesive emotional depth. Some view it as a high-energy spectacle, while others find it too chaotic to leave a lasting impact.

FINAL VERDICT

Coolie may not be flawless, but it delivers what it promises—an unapologetic celebration of Rajinikanth’s legacy. It thrives on fan service, stylish action, and big-screen moments, even if it stumbles in balancing narrative depth with mass appeal.

For Rajini fans, it’s a festival in motion. For general audiences, it’s an entertaining ride best enjoyed with the whistles and cheers of a cinema hall, provided one is willing to overlook the occasional narrative bumps.