Coolie (2025) is one of the most awaited films of the year, not only because it marks Superstar Rajinikanth’s 171st film but also because it is directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, a filmmaker known for his stylish action blockbusters. Released worldwide on 14 August 2025, right before the Independence Day weekend, the movie brings together a powerhouse cast including Nagarjuna, Shruti Haasan, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Sathyaraj, and even a surprise cameo from Aamir Khan. The music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, whose energetic background scores and catchy songs have already become chartbusters.
Filmed across Chennai, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Jaipur, and Bangkok, Coolie combines a port-town backdrop, gold smuggling drama, and high-voltage action to deliver a grand masala entertainer aimed at both die-hard fans and casual viewers.
Pre-Release Buzz
Before its release, Coolie created a storm in the film industry. Advance bookings shattered records, with early estimates pointing towards ₹50 crore in global pre-sales. The holiday timing and Rajinikanth’s unmatched fan following ensured packed theaters for the opening day.
In Tamil Nadu and other South Indian states, fans celebrated with traditional rituals, burst crackers outside theaters, and even hired drones to shower flowers during early morning shows. Many theaters saw fans dancing to the “Chikitu” track inside the halls before the film began. The hype was further fuelled by speculations that Coolie might connect to Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Cinematic Universe (LCU).
Storyline
The movie revolves around Devaraj “Deva”, a once-feared gold smuggler who has turned over a new leaf and now leads the coolie workers’ union at a bustling port. Deva’s peaceful life is disturbed when Simon Xavier, a ruthless and stylish smuggling kingpin played by Nagarjuna, tries to take control of the port’s underground gold trade.
The film follows Deva’s journey as he is forced to pick up his old ways to protect his people. The screenplay shifts between present-day confrontations and flashbacks that reveal Deva’s past, the rise of Simon, and the events that shaped their rivalry.
Key story beats include:
- The politics and brotherhood within the coolie union.
- A shocking betrayal from within the group.
- The emotional bond between Deva and the younger generation of workers.
- Action-packed confrontations at the port, on trains, and in foreign smuggling hubs.
While the story isn’t entirely new in terms of structure, it is elevated by Rajinikanth’s screen presence and Lokesh’s stylish execution.
Performances
Rajinikanth as Devaraj “Deva”
Rajinikanth carries the film on his shoulders with charisma, style, and commanding presence. His entry scene is crafted for maximum fan service, and the de-aged portions in flashback sequences bring back the charm of his younger days. His body language, dialogue delivery, and fight sequences remind audiences of his vintage glory days. While the first half does not give him as many high moments, the second half makes up for it with whistle-worthy scenes.
Nagarjuna as Simon Xavier
Nagarjuna plays Simon with style, menace, and calculated calmness. His introduction is visually grand, and his look has a touch of flamboyance. While his performance is impactful, some may feel that his character arc could have been explored in greater depth, especially given his strong on-screen presence.
Shruti Haasan
Shruti delivers a confident performance, matching Rajinikanth’s energy in their shared scenes. Though her role doesn’t dominate the narrative, she leaves an impression and adds emotional depth to the storyline.
Soubin Shahir
Soubin steals scenes with his natural humor and grounded portrayal of a loyal coolie worker. His comic timing and emotional moments work well, providing a lighter touch amidst the heavy action.
Upendra and Sathyaraj
Both seasoned actors bring gravitas to their roles, with Sathyaraj delivering a powerful speech scene that stands out. Upendra, though with limited screen time, has moments that will please his fans.
Aamir Khan’s Cameo
Aamir Khan appears in a short but impactful role, playing a character whose brief interaction with Deva hints at a bigger universe. His presence got loud cheers in theaters.
Music & Background Score
Anirudh Ravichander’s soundtrack is one of the film’s strongest assets. Songs like “Chikitu” and “Powerhouse” have already gone viral, while “Monica” featuring Pooja Hegde has become a dance sensation. The background score is energetic and tailored for mass moments, enhancing the tension in action scenes and the emotional pull in quieter moments. The BGM for Rajinikanth’s entry is particularly memorable, giving goosebumps to the audience.
Cinematography & Visual Style
Girish Gangadharan’s cinematography gives Coolie a rich, cinematic look. The port sequences are visually stunning, and the fight choreography is captured with clarity and energy. Bright colors dominate the songs, while the action scenes use darker, grittier tones to heighten intensity.
The de-aging VFX for Rajinikanth is among the most convincing seen in Indian cinema, avoiding the artificial look that often plagues such effects.
Direction & Screenplay
Lokesh Kanagaraj blends old-school masala with his signature gritty action style. He crafts stylish set-pieces and fan-service moments, but the pacing in the first half is slower than expected. The interval block is explosive and sets up a thrilling second half.
The screenplay is structured to give each major character their moment, but some arcs—particularly Simon’s—feel underdeveloped. Still, Lokesh ensures that the film’s mass appeal remains intact.
Action Sequences
Action is the lifeblood of Coolie. The port brawls, gold heist chases, and final showdown are designed to make the audience cheer. There’s a notable fight set on a moving train that is a visual highlight. The stunt choreography combines realistic hand-to-hand combat with larger-than-life heroism, giving fans the kind of spectacle they expect from Rajinikanth.
Audience Reaction
Reactions from first-day audiences have been mixed-to-positive:
What They Loved:
- Rajinikanth’s charisma and style.
- Nagarjuna’s stylish villainy.
- High-energy songs and background score.
- The explosive second half.
- The nostalgic throwbacks to Rajinikanth’s earlier films.
What They Criticized:
- A slower first half with uneven pacing.
- Underutilization of Nagarjuna’s character.
- A somewhat predictable storyline.
In theaters, the atmosphere has been electric, with fans cheering, dancing, and chanting Rajinikanth’s name during key moments.
Box Office Outlook
With record-breaking pre-sales and a strong holiday release slot, Coolie is set for an enormous opening weekend. Industry analysts predict it could cross ₹150 crore worldwide in the first day itself if the momentum continues. Its long-term box office run will depend on sustaining positive word-of-mouth beyond the initial fan rush.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Rajinikanth’s commanding screen presence.
- Stylish presentation by Lokesh Kanagaraj.
- Anirudh’s music and BGM.
- High-energy action set pieces.
- Strong supporting cast performances.
Weaknesses
- First half pacing issues.
- Predictable story arc.
- Incomplete development of antagonist’s role.
Final Verdict
Coolie (2025) is a grand mass entertainer that thrives on Rajinikanth’s larger-than-life charisma, Lokesh Kanagaraj’s stylish direction, and Anirudh’s pulsating music. While the film is not without flaws—mainly in pacing and depth—it delivers enough spectacle to keep fans satisfied.
If you’re a Rajinikanth admirer, this is a celebration of his legacy that’s best enjoyed on the big screen. If you’re seeking a grounded, layered drama, you might find it too loud and formulaic. But as an Independence Day blockbuster, Coolie is pure cinematic festivity—full of action, style, and star power.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – A stylish, high-energy masala entertainer powered by Superstar swag.
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