Introduction
The hype around Coolie (2025) was massive—Rajinikanth teaming up with director Lokesh Kanagaraj, music by Anirudh Ravichander, and a star-packed cast. As a fan of both Rajini’s charisma and Lokesh’s action style, I went in with high expectations. Here’s my honest take, no sugar-coating.
Rajinikanth’s Screen Presence Still Rules
If there’s one reason to watch Coolie, it’s Rajinikanth. Even at 74, his style, energy, and command of the screen haven’t dimmed. Whether it’s his trademark slow-motion walk, the punchy dialogues, or high-octane action scenes, Rajini still knows how to make fans whistle in the theatre.
Anirudh’s background score is another major highlight. The music pumps up the energy in almost every scene, especially during Rajini’s hero moments.
Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Style Is There, But…
Lokesh brings his usual flair—stylish cinematography, sharp action choreography, and even some tech tricks like de-aging sequences. The first half moves well, mixing drama, action, and spectacle in a way that keeps you hooked.
But as the story unfolds, the film starts feeling overcrowded. There’s revenge drama, gangster politics, emotional backstories, and a parade of cameos. With so many threads, none get enough space to develop fully.
Supporting Cast: Hits and Misses
Some performances really stand out. Soubin Shahir brings intensity to his role, and Shruti Haasan’s character has some emotional depth. These moments give the film some grounding.
On the flip side, big stars like Nagarjuna and Aamir Khan are barely used. Their roles feel more like a marketing move than a storytelling choice.
Second Half Struggles
After a strong start, the second half slows down. Pacing becomes uneven, and scenes start to feel stretched. Some subplots vanish without resolution, and the editing could have been tighter. By the time the climax hits, the impact isn’t as strong as it should be.
Verdict: Watch for Rajini, Not for the Story
Coolie is a theatre-friendly entertainer packed with style, star power, and crowd-pleasing moments. It’s loud, flashy, and perfect for fans who want to see Rajinikanth in his full glory. But if you’re after a tightly written, emotionally satisfying story, it might fall short.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
- Rajini factor & music: 8/10
- Story & editing: 5/10
- Overall big-screen experience: 7/10
Final Word:
Watch Coolie for the spectacle and star power. Just don’t go in expecting a masterpiece—you’re getting a plate of tasty snacks, not a full-course meal.