Rajinikanth’s new film, Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, has hit the theatres with a lot of buzz. The film stars a strong cast, including Nagarjuna, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, and a cameo by Aamir Khan. Fans expected big things, especially after Kanagaraj’s successful films like Vikram and Kaithi. However, Coolie does not entirely meet the high expectations.
The movie shifts away from the director’s usual fast-paced action style and focuses more on drama. While this change could have offered something fresh, it results in a less engaging experience. The first half of the film progresses at a slow pace, lacking the sharp, thrilling moments that fans have come to love from Kanagaraj’s previous works. The second half picks up, especially during a flashback scene near the climax that showcases the director’s talent for storytelling.
Rajinikanth is, as always, a magnetic presence on screen. His iconic swagger remains intact, but the script restricts him more than fans might wish. Nagarjuna shines as the villain, offering a compelling performance, but even he fades into the background as the story unfolds. The cameos, particularly Aamir Khan’s, seem more like afterthoughts rather than essential parts of the narrative.
From a technical standpoint, Anirudh Ravichander’s background score attempts to elevate key moments, but the overall production feels less grand than expected for a Lokesh Kanagaraj film. Cinematography by Girish Gangadharan and editing by Philomin Raj are competent but lack the visual flair seen in previous films by the director.
Coolie borrows familiar elements from past films, including non-linear storytelling and nostalgic references to Rajinikanth’s earlier roles. However, many supporting characters, such as those played by Soubin Shahir and Rachita Ram, feel underdeveloped. At its core, Coolie is a revenge drama filled with thrilling moments, but it suffers from loose ends and a safe, conventional screenplay.
For fans of Lokesh Kanagaraj, Coolie is worth watching, but it feels restrained compared to his earlier works. Rajinikanth’s charm is evident, but the film lacks the intensity and excitement that usually accompany his roles. While it has memorable scenes, the narrative does not take many risks.
In summary, Coolie is an action-drama that showcases Rajinikanth’s charisma and includes some standout moments, but it falls short due to a recycled narrative and pacing issues. Audiences should manage their expectations, as they may find enjoyment in the film if they do so.
In the end, Coolie is a serviceable film that might entertain fans of Rajinikanth but does not reach the heights of the expectations set by its star power and director’s reputation. It serves as a reminder that even great talents can sometimes create films that, while enjoyable, do not fully realise their potential.