Coolie caters superbly to mass audiences – Movie Review

Introduction
The Telugu version of Coolie—a highly buzzed action thriller directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starring Rajinikanth—was released on August 14, 2025. This pan-Indian film also features a stellar ensemble including Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Soubin Shahir, and a surprise cameo by Aamir Khan. The film arrives in multiple languages, including Telugu, promising and delivering high-energy cinematic entertainment.

Story Line
The narrative centers around Deva (Rajinikanth), a gritty smuggler on a mission to reclaim his empire using old-school, inventive heist methods. The story unfolds with layered confrontations, moral ambiguity, flashbacks, and a belief that legacy and revenge are intertwined. Facing him is Simon (Nagarjuna), a multifaceted antagonist whose torn loyalties and personal scars set the stage for a dramatic showdown.

Actors’ Performances
Rajinikanth commands the screen with his signature charisma and intensity—earning praise as a “one-man show” and a smash comeback. Nagarjuna surprises as a powerful villain, while Shruti Haasan and others deliver impactful portrayals. Aamir Khan’s cameo adds a memorable high-voltage moment. Critics called the experience “paisa vasool”, with exceptional performances driving the film’s impact.

Technicians’ Work
The film shines technically thanks to Anirudh Ravichander’s propulsive soundtrack, including the hugely popular song Monica, whose performances went viral online. Spectacular visuals, slick editing, and dynamic cinematography elevate the big-screen spectacle.

Highlight of the Film
The star-wars energy between Rajinikanth and Nagarjuna stands out. The film’s mass elements—fierce action sequences, stylish drama, and its nostalgic yet fresh tone—garnered huge fan excitement. Packed theaters, viral songs, and glowing statements from stakeholders underscore its blockbuster appeal.

Drawbacks
Despite the strong performances and technical flair, critics point out that the story and screenplay lean on clichés and lack depth. The plot’s weaknesses become most evident outside the climactic final 20 minutes, which manage to redeem the viewing experience.

Analysis
Coolie thrives on its star power and cinematic bravado. It leans heavily into Rajinikanth’s legacy and Lokesh’s flair for high-stakes storytelling. While the narrative might fall short on complexity, it scores heavily on spectacle—making it perfect for fans craving cinematic urgency and visual delight on the big screen.

Verdict
With hallmarks like explosive performances, chart-topping music, and larger-than-life staging, Coolie caters superbly to mass audiences. However, viewers seeking narrative depth may find it somewhat superficial. Overall, it delivers what it promises: unadulterated entertainment.
Rating: 3/5