Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Rajinikanth-led action drama packs punch, charisma, and revenge in a high-octane entertainer.
Star-Heavy Cast, Rajinikanth Rules the Screen
Coolie features a galaxy of stars including Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Sathyaraj, and cameo appearances by Aamir Khan and Upendra. Despite the ensemble, it is Rajinikanth as Deva, the titular coolie, who dominates the film.
- Aamir Khan appears as a tattooed crime lord in a desert showdown.
- Upendra has an extended cameo in the second half.
- Nagarjuna Akkineni plays the principal villain Simon Xavier.
- Soubin Shahir portrays Dayal, a ruthless operations supervisor.
Even with multiple stars, Rajinikanth carries the film with his unmatched charisma, ensuring the story stays engaging.
Rajinikanth’s Deva: Action Hero, Protector, and Moral Crusader
Deva is a multi-faceted character:
- Fearless crime-buster and trade union leader
- Benevolent landlord running a boarding house for students
- Protective father figure to the daughters of a slain friend
- Relentless action hero seeking justice
Rajinikanth’s presence elevates key sequences, especially the pre-interval setup that propels the second half of the film.
Action, Revenge, and Moral Stakes
The film blends action and drama seamlessly:
- Deva investigates the mysterious death of his friend Rajasekhar.
- Preethi (Shruti Haasan) initially opposes Deva but eventually trusts him to protect her and her sisters.
- Villains Simon Xavier and Dayal commit heinous acts, prompting Deva’s vengeful crusade.
- Action sequences are visually striking, with clever devices like sudden blackout twists to heighten suspense.
Despite the blood and gore, the moral clarity of the hero versus villain dynamic remains intact.
Women in Coolie: Secondary but Influential
Preethi’s character shows bravery, but the narrative primarily revolves around Deva. The film emphasizes the hero’s journey, with women and other supporting characters playing secondary yet pivotal roles.
Direction and Screenplay: Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Star-Centric Vision
This is Lokesh Kanagaraj’s first collaboration with Rajinikanth. The director crafts the screenplay to maximize the superstar’s charisma, reminiscent of his previous works with Vijay (Master, Leo) and Kamal Haasan (Vikram).
- The narrative sometimes meanders through subplots but is consistently held together by Rajinikanth’s screen presence.
- Visual storytelling, particularly Rajinikanth’s dramatic entry, keeps the audience engaged.
Final Verdict
Coolie is a high-energy, star-driven action entertainer where Rajinikanth outshines all. With a gripping central character, intense action, and a strong supporting cast, the film is a treat for fans and a showcase of the superstar’s enduring appeal.
Cast: Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Sathyaraj, Aamir Khan
Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj
