Lokesh Kanagaraj’s collaboration with the legendary Rajinikanth in Coolie was one of the most highly anticipated films of the year. However, despite the immense star power of its lead actor and a masterful musical score, the film ultimately stumbles, failing to live up to the sky-high expectations. While it’s an entertaining ride, it feels uneven and confusing, a diluted version of Lokesh’s previous hit, Vikram
Acting
Rajinikanth, at 74, is the heart and soul of the film. He effortlessly commands the screen, proving that his charisma and connection with audiences are as strong as ever. Whether he’s delivering meta-references or performing his signature cigarette flip, his presence alone makes the film exponentially more watchable. The de-aged flashback sequences are a particular treat for fans, blending nostalgia with his classic “mass” appeal.
While Nagarjuna’s villain, Simon, is menacing and ruthless, he isn’t very impactful, and the script doesn’t allow him to be truly memorable. On the other hand, Soubin Shahir steals the show as the unpredictable Dayal. With a well-written, fleshed-out role, he delivers a fantastic performance that keeps the audience guessing. Shruti Haasan also does a commendable job as a grieving daughter, even matching Rajinikanth in some intense scenes. However, the film’s many cameos, including those from Upendra and Aamir Khan, are a mixed bag. Upendra’s role is a treat for fans, but Aamir Khan’s character feels inorganic and adds very little to the narrative, coming off as a forced attempt to make the film pan-Indian.
Direction
Lokesh Kanagaraj, a director known for his “new-mass grammar,” seems to struggle with the weight of expectations and the star power of Rajinikanth. Coolie’s plot, much like Vikram, follows an aging man with a dark past who is forced into action after a loved one’s death. However, unlike Vikram where Lokesh was in complete command, here the narrative meanders and lacks cohesion and direction. The film feels like it’s trying too hard to be both a classic Rajinikanth film and a Lokesh Kanagaraj film, resulting in a convoluted web of sub-plots and twists.
The director also leans heavily on his signature tropes, which now feel predictable. What was once an exciting use of Chekhov’s Gun in films like Kaithi now feels like a tired pattern. Similarly, the use of a classic ’90s song for an action sequence, once a fun and cool directorial flourish, now feels like an awkward attempt at self-mimicry.
Technical and Musical Aspects
The film’s technical aspects are a saving grace. The fight sequences, choreographed by Anbariv and beautifully presented by Lokesh, are slick and engaging. The de-aged look of Rajinikanth in the flashback portions is a true visual treat.
However, it’s the musical score by Anirudh Ravichander that truly elevates the film. Despite the lack of a single, definitive viral track, Anirudh’s background score is explosive, adding much-needed firepower to the film’s dull moments. He consistently elevates scene after scene, saving the film from its more formulaic and predictable beats. The soundtrack, with tracks like “Mobsta” and “Powerhouse,” is an absolute blast and is one of the film’s strongest elements.
Overall
While Coolie is not a bad film by any means, it is a missed opportunity. The combination of Rajinikanth and Lokesh Kanagaraj should have delivered a much more cohesive and impactful experience. Despite its flaws, Rajinikanth’s magnetic presence, a few standout supporting performances, and an incredible score from Anirudh make it a watchable film. However, one can’t shake the feeling that with a tighter script and a clearer vision, it could have been so much more.