Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie, starring the iconic Rajinikanth, arrives with sky-high expectations, thanks to the director’s previous hits like Vikram and Kaithi. With a cast that includes Nagarjuna, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, Soubin Shahir, Rachita Ram, and a cameo by Aamir Khan, Coolie promises cinematic fireworks. But while it delivers moments of brilliance, it struggles to maintain consistent momentum.
Plot & Structure: A Revenge Drama with Familiar Beats
Rajinikanth plays Deva, a former dock union leader turned hostel manager, who is pulled back into a violent world after the death of his friend Rajasekhar (Sathyaraj). The plot revolves around a smuggling syndicate led by Simon (Nagarjuna) and his brutal enforcer Dayal (Soubin Shahir). The narrative leans heavily on drama, with Lokesh opting for emotional arcs over his usual adrenaline-fueled storytelling.
- First Half: Functional but lacks punch; slow setup with scattered elevations
- Second Half: Gains traction with a strong flashback and climactic twist
- Screenplay: Commercially safe, borrowing from Vikram and Baashha templates
Performances: Rajinikanth’s Magnetism vs. Underused Ensemble
- Rajinikanth: Effortlessly charismatic, but his presence feels dialed down compared to fan expectations
- Nagarjuna: Delivers a layered performance as Simon, though sidelined in the latter half
- Soubin Shahir: Scene-stealer as Dayal, with gritty intensity and surprising dance moves
- Aamir Khan: Cameo as Dahaa feels forced and underdeveloped
- Upendra & Shruti Haasan: Pivotal roles but limited screen time and depth
Technical Aspects: Music, Visuals & Direction
- Music: Anirudh Ravichander’s score adds energy, especially in Rajini’s big moments
- Cinematography: Girish Gangadharan keeps visuals competent but lacks the polish of Vikram
- Editing: Philomin Raj ensures pace, though the narrative feels uneven
- Production Design: Surprisingly modest for a Lokesh film, with standout de-ageing and 80s throwback sequences
Verdict
Coolie is a watchable action-drama elevated by Rajinikanth’s enduring screen presence and a few standout moments. However, it’s weighed down by a safe, rehashed narrative and underutilized characters. Lokesh Kanagaraj’s shift toward drama offers glimpses of brilliance but lacks the explosive impact of his earlier works.
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Best For: Rajini fans, Lokesh completists, and viewers seeking star power over substance
