Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, brings back Rajinikanth in a gritty gangster action-drama. Released on 14 August 2025, the film welcomed Independence Day audiences with a massive box office storm—but also drew a mix of cheers and critiques.
Box Office Blitz
- Global Opening Day: ~₹150–153 crore
- India Net (Day 1): ₹65 crore — a massive opening, but just behind Leo‘s record-breaking haul.
- Day 2 Collection: Around ₹53–54 crore (net) — strong hold despite fierce competition and holiday rush.
The film stands as one of Tamil cinema’s biggest openers of the year, proving that Rajinikanth’s stardom remains a powerful draw.
Review Highlights – What Worked
- Rajinikanth’s Magnetic Presence: He absolutely owns the screen—every scene shines with charisma.
- Energetic Score: Anirudh Ravichander’s music adds firepower, especially in dialogue-heavy sequences.
- High-Octane Action: Punchy chases and stylized fight scenes make it a solid adrenaline ride.
Where It Falters
- Overstuffed Script: Some viewers felt the screenplay tried to juggle too many ideas at once.
- Pacing Issues: Momentum drops in parts of the second half, slowing the intensity.
- Mixed Character Threads: Cameos and side arcs added scale, but diluted focus on the core story.
Critics & Audience Ratings
| Source | Rating | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| India Today & NDTV | ★★½ to ★★★☆ (2.5–3/5) | A raw entertainer led by Rajinikanth, but flawed |
| Public Buzz | Mixed | Praise for action and mass appeal; criticism for weak plot |
Final Verdict
Coolie is a mass-appeal spectacle showcasing Rajinikanth’s larger-than-life persona. It’s a must-watch for fans craving high-energy entertainment and catchy music. But if you’re looking for tight storytelling or emotional depth, it might leave you wanting.
Rating: 3 out of 5 — Bold, braggadocious, and fun, but not always fulfilling.
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