Coolie
கூலி
Deva, once living a quiet life, is shaken when his close friend dies under suspicious circumstances. Determined to uncover the truth, he infiltrates a powerful gang operating in the shadows. As he investigates, Deva becomes entangled in a dangerous web of crime, betrayal, and secrets from his own past, forcing him to confront powerful enemies while protecting the ones he loves.
Review
In 'Coolie,' director Lokesh Kanagaraj crafts a sprawling, atmospheric crime saga that feels both like a classic gangster epic and a deeply personal revenge thriller. The film hooks you immediately, not with explosive action, but with the quiet, simmering intensity of Deva (Rajinikanth), a man whose peaceful existence is shattered by the mysterious death of a friend. The plot, while familiar in its broad strokes of infiltration and vengeance, is elevated by its meticulous pacing and a dense, shadowy atmosphere that makes the criminal underworld feel tangibly oppressive. The 170-minute runtime is a commitment, but it allows for a slow-burn character study that pays off in its emotionally charged and explosive final act. Rajinikanth delivers a masterclass in restrained power, his iconic presence channeled into a weary, determined performance that speaks volumes through silence and piercing stares. Nagarjuna Akkineni is a formidable and charismatic counterpoint as a key figure within the gang. Kanagaraj's direction is assured, with gritty, stylish visuals and action sequences that are brutal, inventive, and serve the story rather than overshadow it. Shruti Haasan, while underutilized, provides crucial emotional grounding. The film's greatest strength is its world-building; every character, from Soubin Shahir's nuanced ally to Upendra's menacing presence, feels like a piece of a larger, dangerous puzzle.
Pros
- ✓Rajinikanth's powerfully understated and emotionally resonant performance, showcasing a veteran star at his dramatic best.
- ✓Lokesh Kanagaraj's masterful direction and world-building, creating a gritty, immersive, and suspenseful crime thriller atmosphere.
- ✓Inventive and hard-hitting action choreography that feels integral to the narrative and character development.
- ✓Strong supporting cast, particularly Nagarjuna Akkineni, who brings gravitas and complexity to his pivotal role.
Cons
- ✗The 170-minute runtime may test some viewers' patience, with a deliberate middle act that could have been tighter.
- ✗Female characters, notably Shruti Haasan's, are written with less agency and depth, primarily serving the protagonist's emotional journey.
- ✗A plot revelation in the final act, while emotionally impactful, relies on a familiar trope that some may find predictable.
'Coolie' is a triumph of style, substance, and star power. It successfully marries the mass appeal of a Rajinikanth action vehicle with the intricate, gritty sensibilities of a Lokesh Kanagaraj crime universe. While its lengthy runtime and occasional narrative familiarity are minor drawbacks, they are overwhelmingly outweighed by the film's strengths: a career-best performance from its legendary lead, razor-sharp direction, and action that thrills with both spectacle and purpose. This is not just a movie; it's an experience—a tense, atmospheric, and ultimately satisfying descent into a world of loyalty, betrayal, and retribution. It demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible. For fans of the director's previous work or those seeking a smart, stylish action thriller with genuine emotional weight, 'Coolie' delivers in spades and cements its place as a standout film of the year.
🎯 Who Should Watch
Fans of Lokesh Kanagaraj's cinematic universe (LCU), Rajinikanth enthusiasts, and viewers who enjoy gritty, character-driven crime thrillers and action dramas with emotional depth.
⭐ Standout Elements
The seamless fusion of Rajinikanth's iconic star persona with a grounded, gritty narrative, and Lokesh Kanagaraj's exceptional ability to build a palpable, suspenseful atmosphere that keeps you engrossed for nearly three hours.
🎬 Overall Impact
A must-watch film that delivers on both entertainment and emotional depth.
📽️ This film represents exceptional filmmaking that deserves your attention.
