Coolie Movie Review – Rajinikanth Shines, But Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Story Falls Short

Coolie Movie Review: Rajinikanth’s Swag vs Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Storytelling

Lokesh Kanagaraj’s much-anticipated Coolie brings back Rajinikanth in full “mass hero” mode — and for fans, that’s reason enough to cheer. At 74, the superstar delivers a performance dripping with charisma, vintage style, and unmatched screen presence. However, while Coolie delivers fan-pleasing spectacle, it struggles to balance its many ideas into a coherent, emotionally engaging narrative.

What Works

🔥 Rajinikanth’s Star Power
Thalaivar’s charisma dominates every frame. His energy, comic timing, and swagger — even in high-octane action — make it clear why he remains a box-office magnet. The de-aged flashback sequences, using some of the best VFX seen in Kollywood, are a visual treat for fans.

🎬 Stylish Action & Visuals
Girish Gangadharan’s cinematography gives Coolie a slick, high-contrast look, while Anirudh Ravichander’s soundtrack pumps adrenaline into every major sequence. The fight scenes are choreographed with flair, especially in the first half, which builds strongly toward the interval.

🎭 Supporting Cast Highlights
Soubin Shahir turns in a standout performance, and Nagarjuna oozes menace as the stylish antagonist. Their on-screen presence adds depth, even if the script doesn’t give them enough to do.

Where It Falters

📉 Weak Story & Screenplay
The main complaint across reviews is the film’s lack of a strong emotional hook. The second half in particular drags, becoming predictable and overlong.

🎭 Too Many Ideas, Not Enough Depth
Subplots pile up without resolution, and several characters feel underdeveloped. The much-hyped cameos from Aamir Khan and Upendra are fleeting and, according to many critics, add little value.

👩 Underwritten Female Roles
Shruti Haasan’s character is a textbook damsel in distress, repeatedly waiting for rescue — a letdown in a film otherwise stacked with big names.

🎯 Missing the Lokesh Touch
Fans of Kanagaraj’s previous work (Vikram, Kaithi) may find this lacking his trademark tight, non-linear storytelling and rousing set pieces.

Verdict

Coolie is unapologetically designed for Rajinikanth’s fans. As a “mass entertainer,” it delivers big action, stylish visuals, and vintage Thalaivar magic. But for audiences looking for a tight, well-crafted story, it might feel like Lokesh Kanagaraj’s most uneven work to date.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5) – For the fans, by the fans.