Coolie (2025) Movie: Rajinikanth’s Latest Still Packs a Punch Despite Its Flaws
Coolie (2025), helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, brings Rajinikanth back to cinemas with his trademark style and charisma. Released on 14 August 2025, this action drama has sparked conversations among critics and fans alike with its bold approach to commercial filmmaking.
The film features a stellar lineup including Nagarjuna, Shruti Haasan, and Aamir Khan, creating anticipation for what could be one of the year’s biggest entertainers. Kanagaraj’s reputation for crafting slick action sequences meets Rajinikanth’s screen presence in this ambitious project.
Story That Connects
The film tells the story of Deva, a man who runs a shelter in Chennai while harboring secrets from his past as a port worker. When corruption threatens innocent lives, his hidden identity becomes the weapon needed to fight back.
What I found interesting is how the narrative weaves between past and present, showing how one man’s journey from laborer to protector shapes the entire conflict. The story structure keeps you engaged, though it demands patience during certain slower moments.
Rajinikanth’s Commanding Screen Presence
Rajinikanth proves once again why he remains cinema’s most magnetic performer. His portrayal of Deva feels natural and age-appropriate, avoiding the pitfalls of trying too hard to appear younger than his years.
I was impressed by how effortlessly he switches between the vulnerable shelter keeper and the fierce fighter when circumstances demand it. His dialogue delivery and body language carry the film through its weaker moments, reminding us why he’s called a superstar.
Strong Supporting Performances
Nagarjuna brings gravitas to his role, while Shruti Haasan delivers a performance that goes beyond being just the female lead. Aamir Khan’s presence adds weight to crucial scenes, though his screen time feels limited.
The supporting cast works well within the film’s framework, with each actor understanding their role in serving the larger story. I appreciated how the film doesn’t waste time on unnecessary romantic subplots, keeping the focus on the main conflict.
Kanagaraj’s Visual Storytelling
Lokesh Kanagaraj demonstrates his mastery over action filmmaking, creating sequences that feel both stylized and grounded. His camera work during fight scenes captures the intensity without becoming overly chaotic or confusing.
The director’s ability to blend commercial elements with his unique visual style results in moments that feel fresh within familiar territory. I found his approach to violence more meaningful here, serving the story rather than existing purely for spectacle.
Musical Brilliance by Anirudh
Anirudh Ravichander delivers another knockout soundtrack that elevates every scene it accompanies. The Monica track has already become a chartbuster, but it’s his background score that truly shines throughout the film.
His music enhances both the emotional beats and high-octane action sequences, creating an immersive experience that stays with you long after leaving the theatre. The sound design works perfectly with his compositions to create a rich audio landscape.
What Makes It Work
The film succeeds because it understands what audiences want from a Rajinikanth movie while trying to present it in a contemporary package. I found the action choreography particularly well-executed, avoiding over-the-top sequences that might seem ridiculous.
The technical team deserves credit for creating visuals that support the story without overwhelming it. From costume design to production design, everything feels cohesive and purposeful rather than flashy for its own sake.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its strengths, Coolie suffers from pacing issues, particularly in its second half where the momentum slows considerably. I felt the film could have benefited from tighter editing, especially during exposition-heavy scenes.
Some plot points feel underdeveloped, leaving certain character motivations unclear. While the complexity adds intrigue, it sometimes comes at the cost of emotional connection, making some dramatic moments feel less impactful than they should.
Rating: 3/5 stars
