Coolie movie review: A mass-entertainer that rides on screen presence and swagger
Coolie movie review opens with Rajinikanth reclaiming the big-screen swagger of his 80s–90s prime, delivering a charismatic, action-driven masala entertainer directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj.
Cast, Crew & Background
This 2025 Tamil-language action thriller marks Rajinikanth’s 171st lead role, produced by Sun Pictures under Kalanithi Maran and helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj Wikipedia. The star-studded ensemble includes Nagarjuna (as the Joker-inspired villain Simon), Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, and a surprising cameo from Aamir Khan WikipediaSamayam Telugu. Cinematography by Girish Gangadharan, editing by Philomin Raj, and a soundtrack by Anirudh Ravichander complete the technical backbone Wikipedia1.
The trailer—released August 2—packed a punch: Rajinikanth’s intense imagery, Aamir Khan’s brief but attention-grabbing glimpse, and a brooding atmosphere built high anticipation Navbharat Times.
Audience Buzz & Box-Office Hype
Pre-release buzz was massive. Ticket pre-sales surpassed ₹50 crore and opening-day collections were estimated at over ₹150 crore, thanks in part to its release during the Independence Day long weekend The Times of India. Social media erupted with fanfare:
- Udhayanidhi Stalin, Tamil Nadu’s Deputy CM, calls it a “power-packed mass entertainer” and congratulates Rajinikanth on his golden jubilee in cinema The Times of India.
- Fans broke coconuts, showered petals with drones, and shouted slogans at theaters — a celebratory frenzy unmatched in recent releases India Today.
- Twitter users mostly called it a “one-man show,” hailing Rajinikanth’s vintage swag and Aamir Khan’s cameo, even as some found the second half lacking The Economic TimesIndiatimes.
Early Reactions: Strengths vs. Weak Points
Highlights
- Rajinikanth’s commanding presence continues to anchor the film’s energy. His interval block is especially praised The Times of IndiaIndiatimes.
- Nagarjuna’s villain Simon garners attention for a Joker-inspired, menacing portrayal Samayam Telugu.
- Music and visuals by Anirudh and team elevate the experience—especially the viral single “Monica,” which made Pooja Hegde’s hook step a social media sensation (10+ million views) Wikipedia2Wikipedia2.
- Climactic payoff resonates with audiences; fans dubbed the ending as “fire” The Indian Express.
Criticisms
- Pacing and screenplay were underwhelming to some. Viewers described the story as flat with an uneven second half IndiatimesThe Times of IndiaThe Indian ExpressDeccan Herald.
- Overhyped expectations left a few disappointed; comments on Twitter called the film “uninspired,” with a few giving it only 2/5 The Times of India.
- Overseas audience reactions echoed similar concerns, noting monotonous storytelling, though the last 20 minutes redeemed the experience with explosive climax visuals Deccan Herald.
Trailer of Coolie:
Fan Reaction Video for Coolie:
Summary & Verdict
Coolie movie review reflects a film that thrives on star power and spectacle rather than narrative boldness. It’s built for the big screen—best experienced in a crowded theater with pulsing background score, iconic style, and Rajini’s undiminished charisma The Times of India.
Fans and critics alike agree:
- Rajinikanth delivers an electrifying action masala experience.
- Nagarjuna stands out as the stylish, edgy antagonist.
- Aamir Khan’s cameo adds surprise value.
- Music, visuals, and spectacle make Coolie a social event—even if the story falls just short.
Final take: If you’re looking for a punchy, retro-style star vehicle that celebrates Rajinikanth’s legacy, Coolie movie review confirms—it delivers on charisma, gravity, and visual splendor. Just temper expectations on the script.