‘Coolie’ Movie Review
Movie: Coolie
Release Date: 14 Aug 2025
CBFC Rating: A
Run-time: 2h 49m
Banner: Sun Pictures
Cast: Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Sathyaraj, Shruthi Haasan, Rachitha Ram, Upendra and Aamir Khan
Director of Photography: Girish Gangadharan
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
Producer: Kalanithi Maaran
Written and Directed by: Lokesh Kanagaraj
Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie, starring the legendary Rajinikanth, is a highly anticipated film that promises a high-octane gangster drama with star power. The film marks a celebration of Rajinikanth’s 50th year in cinema and has generated significant buzz with its promotional material and star-studded cast.
Plot
The story centers on Deva (Rajinikanth), a powerful and charismatic figure who has gone underground but is called back to the port city of Visakhapatnam after his friend Rajashekar’s (Sathyaraj) unexpected death. Deva soon uncovers that Rajashekar was murdered and sets out to avenge his death, leading him into the heart of a powerful smuggling syndicate run by Simon (Nagarjuna). Along with his friend’s daughter Preethi (Shruti Haasan), Deva uncovers more hidden truths and double crosses, and the narrative unfolds with a complex web of characters and plot threads.
Performances
Rajinikanth is the heart and soul of Coolie, carrying the film on his shoulders with his signature charisma and effortless style. The de-ageing technology used in the flashback portions is impressive, allowing Rajinikanth to portray his younger self convincingly. Nagarjuna Akkineni is apt as a stylish antagonist, bringing his charm to the role. He delivers a balanced act as a menacing villain and also as an emotional father. Other notable performances include Soubin Shahir as the ruthless Dhayal and Sathyaraj in a limited but impactful role. Shruti Haasan delivers a strong performance, displaying a range of emotions. Upendra’s role was restricted to a cameo. Aamir Khan brings the roof down in the end.
Highlights
Rajinikanth Performance
Nagarjuna As Stylish Antagonist
Intense Action
Anirudh BGM
Soubin Shahir
Drawbacks
Disjointed Narrative
Slow Pace At Times
Analysis
Coolie blends Lokesh Kanagaraj’s style with Superstar Rajinikath’s swag. The film delivers Lokesh’s signature style with a gritty aesthetic and intense action choreography. Rajinikanth, along with others, made the narrative captivating. Coolie is a tribute to Rajinikanth’s charisma. The film starts in a decent manner, but towards the interval, things start rolling with an interesting screenplay, resulting in a cohesive and engaging narrative.
Anirudh Ravichander’s music is a standout aspect, elevating many parts of the film with his pulsating background score. Girishangadharan’s cinematography captures the film’s gritty atmosphere well. Philominaj’s editing could have been crisper. In the end, Coolie is a film that will likely appeal to all section of audience and a celebration for die hard Rajinikanth fans.
Rating: 3.5/5
Bottom-line: A Perfect Tribute To Rajini’s SUPERSTARdom
