"Coolie" is a mass action drama directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, featuring Rajinikanth in the lead. The film also stars Nagarjuna, Shruti Haasan, Soubin Shahir, and Sathyaraj in key roles, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander. Produced by Sun Pictures, the film released today amidst high expectations. Let's see if Coolie lives up to the hype.
Plot Summary:
Deva (Rajinikanth) lives in a mansion and manages it while residing in one of its rooms. Upon learning that his friend Rajasekhar (Sathyaraj) has passed away, he visits his home. Rajasekhar has three daughters, the eldest being Preethi (Shruti Haasan), who seems irritated by Deva’s presence. Deva, however, suspects foul play and believes Rajasekhar was murdered. He vows to track down the culprits and take revenge.
Meanwhile, Simon (Nagarjuna) runs a large-scale export business employing hundreds of workers. His close aide Dayal (Soubin Shahir) oversees operations with an iron grip. Sensing illegal activities, a few undercover cops join the labor force, only to be brutally eliminated by Dayal.
Before his death, Rajasekhar had interactions with Simon and Dayal — a link that leads Deva to their empire in search of the truth. The rest of the story unfolds as Deva unravels his past, investigates Simon's syndicate, and confronts the dark forces within.
Analysis:
Lokesh Kanagaraj blends intense action, emotional depth, and classic Rajini flair into the screenplay. Though the audience expects the plot to revolve primarily around Rajinikanth and Nagarjuna, it’s Soubin Shahir’s role as Dayal that truly elevates the narrative. Lokesh deserves credit for crafting such a layered character that challenges both hero and villain.
Instead of the usual hero-villain face-offs, Dayal drives conflict from both ends — not in a comedic tone, but with sharp intensity. This three-dimensional character dynamic becomes the film's backbone.
The screenplay is tight, with twists and surprises placed strategically, keeping viewers on edge. The Rajini charisma, Nagarjuna’s villainy, and Soubin’s unconventional antagonist role together form a compelling core. The final sequences set up the stage for a potential sequel, giving mass film lovers something to cheer for.
Performances:
Rajinikanth once again mesmerizes with his signature style and energy. Nagarjuna plays the villain convincingly, delivering a composed yet menacing performance. Soubin Shahir steals the show with a rare and powerful negative role that he fully capitalizes on.
Shruti Haasan looks elegant and delivers a decent performance in her limited screen time. Pooja Hegde shines in a special number, adding glamour to the narrative. Cameos by Aamir Khan and Upendra fit well into the story.
Technical Aspects:
Lokesh Kanagaraj proves his command over mass-action storytelling once again. His character design stands out, especially with no traditional love tracks or duets, which surprisingly doesn’t feel like a loss.
Anirudh Ravichander’s background score is a major asset, adding mood and momentum to every crucial sequence. Girish Gangadharan’s cinematography and Philomin Raj’s editing are competent. A few moments feel slightly stretched, but the overall pacing remains engaging.
Final Verdict:
Coolie successfully combines Rajinikanth’s charisma with Lokesh Kanagaraj’s dark action universe. Nagarjuna’s villain role and Soubin Shahir’s menacing character bring freshness. With impactful storytelling, well-executed twists, and powerful background music, Coolie rises above its minor flaws and delivers a thrilling mass entertainer. Fans of action-packed narratives and Rajinikanth’s style won’t be disappointed.
Coolie Movie Review
- Signature Rajinikanth-style mass entertainer
- Lokesh Kanagaraj delivers gritty action
- Soubin Shahir's character is a standout
- Thrilling twists keep the momentum alive
- Background score adds intensity
- A few dragged-out portions in the narrative
Movie Details
Movie Name: Coolie
Release Date: 2025-08-14
Cast: Rajinikanth,Nagarjuna,Soubin Shahir,Shruti Haasan,Sathyaraj,Upendra
Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
Banner: Sun Pictures
Review By: Peddinti
Trailer